That Pleases God So Much

 

Acknowledgement of one’s ignorance is the beginning of wisdom.

Reflection on Today’s Readings, Saturday of 4th Week in Ordinary Time II, February 3rd, 2024
Texts: 1 Kings 3:4-13; Psalm 119:9-14; Mark 6:30-34 

We see, today, in Solomon what the heart of a leader should be. Solomon teaches us that the heart of a good leader is not proud. This is clear when he confessed his ignorance. He says, “And now, O  Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child; I don't know how to go out or come in.” Acknowledgement of one’s ignorance is the beginning of wisdom. Such acknowledgement opens door for learning and encourages people to teach or advise us. That pleases God so much.  

Solomon also teaches us that heart of a good leader is set on what is good for his people. He asked for an understanding mind to govern his people. His request pleased God and said, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, behold, I now do according to your word.” Solomon sacrificed other things for good governance. 

Do we ask to be good father and mother!

Solomon placed his priority right before God because he had gracious heart. As parents what do we ask from God? Do we ask to be good father and mother! The problem we have in our society is as result of misplacement of priority. Parents are after wealth creation and do not bother about good upbringing of their children. Leaders are concerned with money and so engage in corruption. Good governance is not their priority. How often do we place money before integrity! It is not today we sell integrity for money.  

Jesus is a model for all leaders, He is King of Kings, Lord of lords. He sacrificed pleasure to teach the people. He did it because of His compassion for the people. We read, “As he went ashore he saw a great throng, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things”. His teaching was to provide guidance for the people. We learn from Him that every leader should be compassionate. Every Christian should also be compassionate and work for the good of others.

Prayer 

God our Father, bestow your grace upon us that we may live right before You and place our priority right; may we be compassionate in our relationship with others. Amen  

Fr. Andrew Olowomuke