Listening Heart

“Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil.” 1 Kings 3:9

Peace and grace to you. May these waning days of summer bless you. My prayers are with those who are taking their children to college over the next few weeks, especially first year students. Life will change at home. Prayers for teachers who are preparing to welcome their students. We are grateful for your care. Prayers for parents who are preparing their children to begin the next grade. And prayers for the students who will continue their lifelong journey of learning.

In tomorrow’s Hebrew Scripture reading, we learn of King David’s passing. Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, is heir to the throme. In a dream God comes to Solomon and asks, “What should I give you?” Solomon responds, “Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil.”

The meaning of the Hebrew words translated here as “understanding mind” may better be captured by the phrase “hearing heart.”  Solomon is wise to ask for a hearing heart. Governing requires deep listening and the capacity to be present to others. Governing requires deep compassion, the work of the heart. Governing requires the ability to discern – to separate truth from untruth. These tasks are not easy.  Solomon is wise to ask for such a gift.

God is pleased by Solomon’s request. Solomon has not asked for a long life or riches. So, God gives him a wise heart. Indeed, King Solomon is known for his great wisdom and ability to judge right from wrong, good from evil.

May we follow Solomon’s example and ask God for hearing hearts, that we may be people of compassion and sound judgment. May our choices bring heaven ever closer to earth.