August 13, 2018

The Quest for Wisdom

Kyndall Rae Rothaus | Read 1 Kings 2:10-12 , Read 1 Kings 3:3-5

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

August 13–19, 2018

Scripture Overview

If you could ask God for one thing, what would it be? God offered this chance to Solomon, and the king asked for wisdom to rule God’s people well. God honored this request by giving Solomon many other gifts too, as long as the king followed God’s ways. (Later on, unfortunately, Solomon lost his way.) The psalmist tells us that wisdom begins with understanding who we are and who God is. Ephesians addresses practical implications of wise living: follow the will of the Lord, be filled with the Spirit, encourage one another, and be grateful to God. The Gospel passage continues Jesus’ metaphorical description of himself as the bread of heaven. Here Jesus anticipates the sacrament of Communion, in which we partake of his body and blood by faith.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14. Why are you afraid to ask God to meet your needs or show you your call?
• Read Psalm 111. What actions dominate your quest for God? Do you remember to stop and delight in God’s love for you?
• Read Ephesians 5:15-20. How do you make the most of your time with God? How do you show others that you are filled with the Spirit?
• Read John 6:51-58. In Communion we recall Jesus’ offering of his body and blood. How has that concept been a stumbling block to you?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Solomon follows his father’s instructions with one notable exception—King Solomon offers sacrifices and incense in the high places. In most biblical contexts, such sacrifices were not acceptable, but here Solomon takes it upon himself to diverge and ascend the high places—a syncretism with Canaanite religion we would expect God to...

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O God of surprise appearances, help me ascend to the high places of the heart to search for you without fear of judgment or failure. Amen.

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