Reflection on Today's Readings, 17th Sunday of Ordinary Time Year A, 26th July, 2020
Today we are to ask ourselves what is the greatest of our lives; that for which we can give all we have to possess. We need to point out one that treasure in our lives that we could die for or give every other thing to have it. Until we are able to discern that treasure, our lives have no meaning; it is devoid of focus and direction. The greatest treasure of one's life gives meaning to one's life and shows where one's life will end. If it is money, position, honour, fame, or pleasure, we all know that they will all fade and end in corruption.
Jesus Christ tells us in the gospel that the kingdom of God should be the greatest treasure of our lives. The kingdom is the treasure that is worth every other thing, even our own very life. Anything that enhances the kingdom of God should be our concerns. In the first reading, Solomon asks for wisdom to rule Israel, the people of God. Solomon asked that which will enhance the kingdom of God and God was pleased with him. Hence, it is written thus: "And God said to him, "Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but for understanding to discern what is right, behold, I now do according to your word". When we pray, what do we ask. Is it the life of our enemy? Perhaps, long life and wealth. Sometimes we ask for fame and position. Our prayers reflect what we hold dear in our lives. If we are to ask for only one thing, what will that be. Are will going to consider the kingdom of God? Jesus says, "seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matt.6:33). Seeking wisdom is seeking the Righteousness of the kingdom. Righteousness is the state of being pleasing to God by acting in accordance with his will, and wisdom achieves it. It is written of wisdom thus: "She makes them into God's friends and prophets; for God loves only those who dwell with wisdom" (Wis. 7:27-28). Hence, Solomon sought the righteousness of the kingdom by asking for wisdom, for it is said, "God loves only those who dwell with wisdom" (Wis 7:28). Whatever we pray for and will not help us to attain the kingdom of God is not worth asking. We should always ask for things that will advance the kingdom of God and its righteousness in the world. Riches, position of authority, influence, etc become bad when they are seen as ends themselves, but become pleasing to God when they are seen and used as means of advancing the kingdom and it's righteousness.
Today's Psalmist makes obedience to God's word the greatest treasure in his life. He says, I have said 'O Lord, my portion is to obey your words'". He expresses the words in different forms: law, commands, precepts. Obedience to God's words advances the kingdom and its righteousness.
The second reading reminds us that everything works for good with those who love God and are called according to his purpose. The purpose for which God calls us is to be conformed to the image of his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Hence, the second reading put forward another greatest treasure: the likeness of our Lord Jesus Christ. This means we are to devote every other things to our gowth in the likeness of our Lord Jesus Christ.
God our Father, help us to grow towards you and to always work for your kingdom and its righteousness. Amen.
Fr. Andrew Olowomuke
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