Scripture Readings

1 Samuel 1:1-23;  Proverbs 1:1-33;  Jeremiah 1:1-10

Prayer

Daily Prayer Rule for Great Lent

Reflection

“And her rival used to provoke her sorely, to irritate her, because the LORD had closed her womb. So it went on year by year; as often as she went up to the house of the LORD, she used to provoke her. Therefore Hannah wept and would not eat. And Elkanah, her husband, said to her, “Hannah, why do you weep? And why do you not eat? And why is your heart sad? Am I not more to you than ten sons?”

After they had eaten and drunk in Shiloh, Hannah rose. Now Eli the priest was sitting on the seat beside the doorpost of the temple of the LORD. She was deeply distressed and prayed to the LORD, and wept bitterly.”

1 Samuel 1:6-10

Can you imagine the shame, humiliation and agony that Hannah must have experienced during these years?

Elkanah’s compassionate attempt to step into Hannah’s world and suffering is the point that changes the narrative. Perhaps, that is what gave Hannah a reason to live, hope and continue to pray and believe.

The power of a simple compassionate conversation and healing presence in someone’s suffering is sometimes underestimated. Yet, this is often all someone in pain needs to go on, keep fighting, surviving and hoping. Human compassion is the true gateway allowing God to enter into the suffering heart and lead them to healing, miracle, and the realization of their prayers.

Action

Pray and reach out to someone in pain and going through hardship.