Today’s first reading began excitingly. If you were Solomon, what would you ask? Some of us would ask for more cars, houses, shoes, food, money, power, children, and much more! On the contrary, Solomon asked for wisdom to benefit his and God’s kingdom. He begged God to give him understanding: “Give your servant a heart to understand how to discern between good and evil.” An understanding heart is God’s gift (Prov 2: 6). We need it every day and in all aspects of our life (family, work, studies, and in all life’s decisions) in order to succeed. So, the Apostle James encourages us: “If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously, and it will be given to you (Jas 1:5). Wisdom was given to Solomon because he asked for it. However, God expects us to ask wisely, reasonably, and not selfishly.

In the second reading, Paul reminds us, “In everything, God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.” God is leading us through the storms of life toward our home and his kingdom. Carefully, He orders all the events of our lives in order to lead us there. This is what we call providence. Simply put, God’s mighty hand is active in all the circumstances of our lives.

“Everything” is utterly inclusive and comprehensive. It has no qualifications or limits. Therefore, neither this verse nor its context allows for restrictions or conditions. “All things” is inclusive in the fullest possible sense. It includes your present trouble, your heavy heart, your poverty, your richness, joblessness, your success and failure, your weakness and strength, as well as your sickness and health. Indeed, “everything” and nothing is left out! Nothing exists or occurs in heaven or on earth without the knowledge of God. By saying that “all things work together for us,” Paul tries to reassure us that there is no discord in God’s providence. This is especially for those who have wisely become God’s friends through their faith in Christ. He also assures us that nothing can ultimately work against those whom God has chosen and predestined for his Kingdom. Those who walk faithfully with him.

Today’s gospel continues Jesus’ use of parables to teach us about the Kingdom of God. Therefore, it is a call to be as wise as Solomon. Without wisdom, we can neither understand the parables of Christ nor seek the kingdom of God. Today’s good news is also a call to value what is most precious to us and for which God has chosen us. Today’s parables intend to instruct us to prefer the kingdom of heaven to this world and ensure that nothing prevents us from entering it. Through these parables, Christ reminds us of the excellence and beauty of eternal life. God’s kingdom is a treasure hidden from the wise of this world. Only those who are wise according to God’s standard look for it and find it. To find it, we must first value it; when we have found it, we must hide it in our hearts. Therefore, let us ask God for understanding and wisdom as Solomon did so that we may be wise enough to discern what is good for us and to make God’s kingdom our priority.