Solomon's Wish

2 Chronicles 1:7-12 relates the story of God telling King Solomon to ask for anything, and God would grant it.  Solomon goes on to ask for wisdom and knowledge, so that he could lead his people and be a good king to them.  It’s such a pure and unselfish choice that God goes on to grant him all the things he didn’t ask for as well; such as wealth, possessions, and honor.

When I was about thirteen years old, I read this story, and I wondered what I would ask for had I been in Solomon’s place.  Essentially, it’s like God granting you one wish.  Of all the things you could ask for, you have to narrow it down to just one.  I agonized over this, struggling with many different ideas, because it had to be perfect.  It had to be a wise choice that could be used to help other people.  It couldn’t be frivolous and petty.  It would be permanent, so it had to be something to transcend my current trials or situation. 

But what did I know at my age?  How could I possibly know what I would go through or endure?  What tool or ability, what gift of the Spirit, would be most useful to my journey and future life?  What did I want most from God?  So, I prayed.  I asked God for the ability to understand people; what they were going through, who they truly were, what they were saying without saying.  I wanted to be able to read someone’s heart. 

And I believe that God granted my prayer that day.  I noticed a change in my interactions with people.  My listening grew better, and as I listened, I started to pick up on subtle hints and clues.  Little things that most people miss.  I became more observant and mindful.  As I grew older, the ability grew stronger and came easier.  I honed the gift through practice.  I found people seeking me out, like they knew that I would be able to understand them.  It was so strange and yet so natural at the same time.

Somewhere along the path of life, I stopped listening.  I let my mind and emotions make decisions over my heart.  The gift doesn’t come so easily to me anymore.  It’s still there, but I think I get in my own way.  I want desperately to have it again; to feel like I used to and connect with people like I used to.  I felt more caring and in touch back then.

I wonder...if you had Solomon’s wish, what would you choose?