Day Six

For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition that I made to him.  Therefore, I have lent him to the Lord. As long as he lives, he is lent to the Lord. - 1 Samuel 1:27-28

Those of us who grew up in church are familiar with the story of Hannah and her miracle child, Samuel.  It’s quite a dramatic story and worth a first time reading or a review.  Hannah was such a godly woman, but was lacking what her heart most desired, a child.  She begs the Lord to open her womb and promises that if He does, she will give the child to Him.  And this is exactly what happens (I Samuel 2:19) What a sacrifice!

There are so many questions that come to mind when I consider this true story.

Samuel is an unmatched character in the Bible because he bridges the gap between the period of the judges and the new season of monarchy.  As the last judge for the nation of Israel, he provided both spiritual, political and military leadership.  When the time came, he anointed the first 2 kings in Israel’s history and continued to guide the people.  His significance cannot be overstated.  Since he was greatly loved and deeply respected, his death was a national tragedy.

1 Samuel 25 describes how the nation assembled to mourn the end of his life and recount his ministry.  Having such a long and meaningful life, we know more about Samuel than most other people we encounter throughout Scripture.  

Comparatively, we know little about his mother.  It’s certainly clear the sacrifice she made before the Lord was of inestimable worth to her, personally. Did she see how God used her son to bring a spiritual renewal to the nation of Israel?  Did she experience the impact of his wise leadership through the decades?  Did she have any idea that every generation for thousands of years would look to her example of generous giving to the Lord?  We may never know the answer to these questions, but we can learn much from this woman and her willing heart before the Lord.  God tenderly cared for the concerns of her heart, and He generously provided for the nation He treasured.  He also showed His ability to multiply the gifts given and proved to be a God who is faithful to lead.

Lord, we thank you for your faithful leadership and tender love.  We ask you to show us what we can give to you to build your kingdom.  Thank you for the example of Hannah and Samuel.  Please multiply the gifts we give to honor your name.

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