Readings: 1 Sam. 3:1-10,19-20, Ps. 40:2,5,7-10, Mark 1:29-39
“And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, ‘Here I am, for you called me.’ Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy. Therefore, Eli said to Samuel, ‘Go, lie down; and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for thy servant hears.’” (1 Samuel 3:8-9)
Today, we continue the story of Hannah. God blessed her with a child, and her years of provocation from Penninah ended. Hannah did not forget God. She remembered her vow and fulfilled it by offering the child to God’s service. When God blesses us, do we remember to thank Him? Do we keep our vows?
Samuel had nowhere to lay his head other than where the Ark of God was kept. It was here that God called him. Samuel was quiet enough to hear the voice of God. Three times, he ran to Eli, thinking Eli had called. When Eli perceived it was God’s voice, he told Samuel: “When next he calls, say: ‘Speak Lord, for your servant is listening.’”
Prayer is not all about informing God of our needs and problems (as if He does not already know). Prayer is a relationship, a dialogue. As we talk, we must listen because God speaks to us when we come into His presence. Additionally, as Eli coached Samuel in responding, we need spiritual directors to guide our spiritual growth.
In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus cured Simon’s mother-in-law, who was sick with a fever. News of this spread through the community, and that night the whole town gathered at Simon’s door, bringing their sick for healing. Jesus told us to ask in faith, and He will grant our requests. However, we must be careful of persons who parade themselves as healers because not all that glitters is gold. Instead of moving from church to church, kneel to pray.
Jesus rose early the next morning and went to a lonely place to pray. Why did Jesus prefer a lonely place? He wanted a place quiet enough to hear God’s voice. This teaches us the importance of personal prayer. You may pray in Church or with others. (I am there where two or three are gathered in my name. Matthew 18:20). However, creating time to be alone with God is essential. Create a lonely place (even if it is your closet), free from the world’s distractions, to hear God like Samuel.
Let us pray: Attend to the pleas of your people with heavenly care, O Lord, we pray, that they may see what must be done and gain strength to do what they have seen. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Wednesday of Week 1 in Ordinary Time. Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: 1 Sam. 3:1-10,19-20, Ps. 40:2,5,7-10, Mark 1:29-39)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu