As we continue to read the First Book of Kings the spotlight today shines on Solomon, King David’s son; at this time David is old and infirm and awaiting his final days.. He had planned on building the Temple in Jerusalem, but that task would fall to his son Solomon.
In today’s part of the saga Solomon speaks before the Ark of the Covenant in the completed Temple. Built of the Cedars of Lebanon, the Temple is brand-spanking new. What must it have been like on that day? Imagine being there with its ambience, feel and smell of a newly constructed special ediface complete with new altar furnishings and a spotless look that couldn’t fail to inspire us. Now at last was a presentable place for the Lord. This was the place where the God of Israel will reside, the God of the Covenant constantly and without fail showing his love for us, His people.
The voice of the wise Solomon rings out against the Temple’s virgin walls, floor and ceiling with its prayer of gratitude and supplication to the Lord as the King speaks to the assembled people of Israel.
The beautiful and surprising mystery contained here in this magnificent scene is that each one of us, like Solomon’s Temple, surrounds the Presence of the good and loving God. We learned long ago that our bodies are the “temples of the Holy Spirit,” and that as such we literally carry in our hearts the very presence of God our Lord and Savior.
What an incredible and humbling truth that is for us to ponder – that little me bears within her/himself the presence of the Eternal God. God loves us that much! How can I possibly respond to that?
Like Solomon in all his wisdom I desire to approach God with gratitude and humble prayer. As the wise Solomon’s voice rung out in the newly minted Temple, my prayer and deep gratitude needs to flow out of and encompass my heart, body and soul filled as it is with the presence of the God, the Incomprehensible One. May that wondrous reality suffuse my life and be of service to others, particularly those in need.
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Since its inception in 1997, Online Ministries has been blessed to have myriad members of the Creighton University community offer their personal reflections on the daily scripture readings.
