In today’s first reading we read that Solomon handled great pressures in running the government, but he could not handle the pressure from his wives who wanted him to worship their gods. In marriage and close friendships, it is difficult to resist pressure to compromise. Our love leads us to identify with the desires of those we care about. Faced with such pressure, Solomon at first resisted it, maintaining pure faith. Then he tolerated a more widespread practice of idolatry. Finally, he became involved in idol worship, rationalizing the potential danger to himself and the kingdom. For all his wisdom, Solomon had some weak spots. He could not say no to compromise or to lustful desires. Whether he married to strengthen political alliances or to gain personal pleasure, these foreign wives led him to idolatry. We may have strong faith, but we are also weak and that is where temptation usually strikes. Let us strengthen ourselves where we are weak because a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. If Solomon, the wisest man, could fall, so can we.

Prayer: Abba Father, teach us your ways when it’s the moment in choosing friends who delight in your Kingdom. Amen.