When God asked Solomon what he wanted, Solomon requested an understanding heart by which to govern his people and to distinguish right and wrong. God responded generously to Solomon's request not only by granting him what he asked for, but also by blessing him with glory and with riches.

The gift that Solomon asked from God has often been referred to as wisdom. Wisdom has been described as "a spiritual gift that enables one to know the purpose and plan of God." Therefore, in asking God for wisdom, Solomon sought first to know the things of God instead of the things that God could give him.

In the Gospel passage, we read how the presence and persistence of the crowd did not give Jesus and the apostles much time to rest. Jesus, although he was tired and hungry, made a point to attend first to the need of the crowd by teaching them at length. It was important for Jesus that the people come to know God and His message of salvation. For Jesus, the things of God came first.

What about us? Does God come first in our lives? Do we constantly seek the things of God or do we seek the things that we feel God could or should give us? During our prayer, do we spend time first by worshipping and thanking God or seeking and asking favours from God? Our responses may help us become aware as to how much importance and time we give to God each day.