Saturday of week 4 in Ordinary Time
First Reading
1 Kings 3:4–13
Solomon asks God for a discerning heart rather than riches or power. God grants wisdom and promises additional blessings, affirming that humility and discernment are foundational to faithful leadership.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 119:9–14
Lord, teach me your decrees.
The psalm reflects a deep desire to live according to God’s word, recognising that obedience leads to integrity and spiritual freedom.
Gospel
Mark 6:30–34
Jesus invites the apostles to rest but is moved with compassion for the crowd. Seeing them as sheep without a shepherd, he teaches them at length, revealing the heart of a true shepherd.
Reflection
Solomon’s request for wisdom demonstrates spiritual maturity. Rather than seeking control or advantage, he desires the capacity to discern rightly. The Catechism teaches that prudence — wise judgement shaped by God — guides moral action and decision-making (CCC 1806).
In the Gospel, Jesus embodies compassionate leadership. Even in fatigue, he prioritises the spiritual hunger of the people. This reflects Christ as the Good Shepherd who cares for his flock (CCC 754). Wisdom without compassion becomes cold, while compassion without wisdom can lack direction. Christian maturity holds both together.
These readings encourage us to pray for discernment and to allow that wisdom to express itself in patient, compassionate service.
One line to carry today
Seek wisdom first, and let compassion follow naturally.
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