Solomon was aware of his limits. Offered anything, he does not ask for power, victory, or wealth. Instead, he asks for an understanding heart: the wisdom to see his people as God sees them. God responds with generosity that exceeds the request, giving Solomon not only wisdom but blessings he never sought. When we desire what aligns with God’s heart, God delights in giving even more than we imagine. In the Gospel, Jesus looks upon the weary crowd with compassion. Before teaching them, he invites his disciples to rest, showing that genuine spiritual leadership flows from humility and deep attentiveness. Jesus’ compassion mirrors the wisdom given to Solomon: a way of seeing that recognizes human need and responds with love. Let us consider what we seek from God. If we ask not for our own advancement but for wisdom, compassion, and the ability to serve with clarity and gentleness, God meets us with abundance.

Abba Father, with all my heart I seek you; let me not stray from your commands. Amen.