The word of God calls us today to reflect on the choices we make in life because every choice comes together as woven threads to form the tapestry of our history and existence. Our choices determine who we are.
In the first reading, God told King Solomon to ask for something from Him. He wanted Solomon to choose what he wanted most, having become the king of Israel. What Solomon asked for was an understanding and discerning heart. He chose the wisdom of a leader, and it was granted to him.
In the second reading, St Paul reminded us that God cooperates with those who love Him and have made Him their choice. To love God is to choose God above every other. So when Paul says “chose” here, it means preference and love. Those who love God are those He had chosen from time immemorial because God first loved us.
In the gospel, Jesus tells two parables regarding choices too. He compared the kingdom of heaven to a choice one made to acquire a discovered treasure by selling off everything he owns. He also compared the Kingdom of Heaven to how fishermen sort the kinds of fish they caught from a dragnet – separating the good from the useless ones.
Solomon’s choice of wisdom and understanding for good leadership of the people rather than long life, more wealth, or dominion over his enemies is a lesson to us that there is no wiser choice than using our wits to serve the community – the community of faith or our socio-political milieu.
Our gathering of faith reflects our choice of Jesus as the centre of our lives. Let us keep making that choice just as Jesus instructed us when He said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and its righteousness; every other thing will be added to you.” (Mtt. 6.33). Let us seek Jesus in the Holy Eucharist and serve God in our neighbour and community. Those are wise Choices!