Today's reading is a reminder that ancient Israel was, initially, a very religious state. Here is a song to be sung at the coronation of the king (perhaps written for the coronation of Solomon himself). It asks God to grant wisdom, strength, mercy, and justice to the newly elevated king. For understandable reasons, it is not a common passage of scripture to study in churches, but this praise of a faithful leader points out the same traits that are in any person of faith -- justice, faithfulness, honesty, charity, and compassion.
[links to Bible Gateway open in a new window]
