I’m from Missouri, you’ll have to show me. I won’t believe it until I see it. Now, I don’t think Sheba is in Missouri, but that is the skepticism with which the queen of Sheba went to Jerusalem. She had heard of Solomon’s wisdom, but would not believe until she saw it herself. She ends up not only believing, but extolling Solomon’s wisdom and the Lord who made him King.

It is worth remembering that Solomon’s wisdom is literally a gift from God. Solomon requested it when God promised to give him whatever he asked for. But, what is wisdom? We might learn by going back several chapters and listening to the conversation after God made the promise. Solomon takes God up on his offer by saying, “I am a mere youth, not knowing at all how to act…give me a listening heart to judge your people and to distinguish between good and evil. God replies, “You asked for discernment to know what is right… I give you a heart so wise and discerning that there has never been anyone like you until now.” Wisdom is in the heart, not simply in the head. It is listening, discerning and seeking what is right. Wisdom is a gift from God for the good of all his people.

Holy Spirit, throughout this day, allow me to see, to hear and to think with your wisdom. Allow me to speak, to act and to will with your love.

—David McNulty is the Provincial Assistant for Advancement, Chicago-Detroit Province Jesuits