The first reading this 17th Sunday in Ordinary time describes the prayer of Solomon and the declaration he made as he prepared to take the reins of government from his father David. "Give your servant an understanding heart to judge your people to discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of yours?" (1Kings 3:9). It is a wonderful prayer for God’s wisdom to be able to discern good from evil.
Before his death, King David had charged his son to walk in God's ways and to keep God statutes, commandments, feasts and testimonies. The young king was instructed to govern according to all that is written in the Law of Moses... for to do so would ensure his success.
Solomon appeared to put his father's advice into practice, for when the Lord appeared to the young king and asked him what he would like the Lord to do for him, Solomon requested an understanding heart so he could judge God's people wisely. He asked to be equipped to discern between good and evil. He did not ask for wealth, power, or a long life, and his unselfish answer pleased the Lord.
Solomon made many mistakes and failed many times during his long reign like every human being. However, he was a successful king, who was faithful to God, loved people entrusted to him, and judged them according to God’s wisdom. As a culmination of his meaningful reign, Solomon was also able to build the House of God, also known as "the First Temple" in 931 BCE. It was very significant and a symbolic venture to show that God is present among his people.
Today’s gospel brings up the topic of Kingdom of God, which is at hand and among us. Kingdom of God is like a priceless treasure or pearl and it is worthy of spending our lives to search and find it. As Jesus’ disciples we are encouraged to search for it, recognize it, and make it known. Although it is at hand, it is not always obvious God lives among us and created this world, which seems full of evil. Indeed, we need to make an effort to see God and his Kingdom in our realities and daily life. After the example of Solomon, we must pray to God to give us an understanding heart to judge this world wisely and be able to discern between good and evil.