What Would You Do? is a classic American hidden-camera television program that I have enjoyed watching in the past, hosted by John Quiñones, that explores human ethics, moral choices, and bystander intervention in everyday situations. John is a motivational speaker and journalist working for ABC News in the United States.
In many ways, this weekend’s liturgy poses a similar question, particularly in the story of Solomon (1 Kings 3:5, 7-12; see other passages from the weekend: Psalm 119:57, 72, 76-77, 127-130; Romans 8:28-30; Matthew 13:44-52). In what appears to be a bystander situation, God presents the young King Solomon with a blank check, inviting him to ask for whatever he desires. Instead of requesting wealth, power, or a long life, Solomon asks for wisdom to govern God’s people. His choice pleased the Lord because he sought a treasure that would benefit others and endure beyond himself, and the Lord added more to him.
Without sounding judgmental, the irony of that story is that many of us, if handed the same blank check, might fill it with things that ultimately add little or no value to our lives. I know people whose garages, storage units, and living spaces are overflowing with possessions they seldom use, items worth enough to pay a year’s mortgage on a modest home or tuition for an entire high school program. The sad part of it is that many of these folks worked multiple jobs to acquire these possessions, perhaps at the expense of relationships, family, health, or other priorities that now weigh heavily on them. Jesus’ parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of immeasurable price (Matthew 13:44-52) confront us, reminding us that true wisdom consists of recognizing and investing in what has lasting or eternal value.
In many ways, God continues to place “blank checks” before us through the opportunities, talents, relationships, and decisions He entrusts to our care. The question this weekend’s readings emphasize is similar to the one posed by “What Would You Do?” in sudden and seemingly uncertain situations. If God were to hand you one of those blank checks today (and I can tell you that you already have one on your lap right now), what would you write on it? Would you seek temporary gains, or would you ask for the wisdom to discover the hidden treasures that neither time nor death can take away? Trusting that “all things work together for the good of those who love God” (Romans 8:28), my prayer this weekend is that you dare to choose what pleases Him, outlives you, and lasts for generations.
