17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
1 Kgs 3:5,7-12
Rm 8:28-30
Mt 13:44-52
“I give you a heart wise and shrewd as none before you…“
In today’s first reading, God appeared to Solomon and said, “Ask what you would like me to give you.” Solomon could have asked for wealth, power, or a long life. Instead, he asked for “a heart to understand how to discern between good and evil.”
A wise and discerning heart.
As I enter the afternoon of life, I find myself reflecting on this gift of wisdom. Perhaps wisdom is not simply about knowing more, but about knowing what truly matters — what we should hold on to and what we need to let go.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus says, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field which someone has found; he hides it again, goes off happy, sells everything he owns and buys the field.” (Mt 13:44)
The person who finds the treasure recognises its true value. He is willing to let go of everything else because he has discovered something far more precious.
Recently, I have been watching videos of people who have chosen to declutter their lives. They come from different stages of life — from their 40s to their 60s. Almost all shared a similar experience — that letting go was freeing. They felt lighter, happier, and had more space, not only physically but also emotionally.
Their stories made me reflect on my own life. As I approach the later chapters of my journey, I sometimes wonder: What will happen when my loved ones have to clear my belongings one day? The things that are meaningful to me may simply become things that others have to sort through. What is precious in my eyes may not hold the same value for them.
Looking back at my younger self, I see things differently today. With hindsight and maturity, I recognise that some of the things I accumulated were not always because I truly needed them. Perhaps they represented success, achievement, or even the desire to fit in.
I bought clothes, bags, and shoes because they matched the image expected of someone in my profession. At that time, they brought happiness and confidence. But if I am honest, that happiness was often temporary. After a while, the excitement faded, and those items simply took up space.
Today, I look at those same things and ask myself: Do they still reflect who I am today? Do they still serve a purpose in my life?
Today, I find joy in simplicity. I wear comfortable shoes because they allow me to walk further. I carry a practical tote bag because it carries what I need. I no longer need possessions to define my worth.
Jesus also says, “…they collect the good ones in a basket and throw away those that are of no use.” (Mt 13:48)
Perhaps this is also an invitation for us to examine our own lives. What are the things that continue to give us life? What are the things that we are holding on to out of habit, fear, or attachment?
Decluttering is not just about having fewer things. It is about creating space for what truly matters — relationships, gratitude, service, growth, and God’s presence.
One day soon, I will begin clearing these items — selling some and donating others. This is not about rejecting my past. These possessions were part of my journey and remind me of the seasons of life I have walked through.
But this is also a new season.
Like the person who discovered the treasure in the field, I want to live the remaining chapters of my life with greater intention. I want to keep what nourishes me, release what weighs me down, and use the gifts God has given me to serve others.
My prayer today is for the same gift Solomon asked for — a wise and discerning heart. The wisdom to know what truly matters, the courage to let go, and the grace to leave behind a legacy of love, kindness, and hope.
(Today’s OXYGEN by Geraldine Nah)
Prayer: Lord, grant me a wise and discerning heart to recognise what truly matters. Help me to let go of what weighs me down and make space for what brings me closer to You. May I use the gifts, experiences, and time You have given me to serve others and leave behind a legacy of love and hope.
Thanksgiving: Lord, I thank You for the journey that has brought me here — for the blessings, challenges, lessons, and people who have shaped my life. Thank You for the wisdom that comes with each season and for reminding me that the greatest treasures are not possessions, but faith, love, relationships, and purpose. In Jesus’ most holy name. Amen.
OXYGEN 
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