Not permitting any word of the Lord to be without effect

“When Samuel went to sleep in his place, the LORD came and revealed his presence, calling out as before, ‘Samuel, Samuel!’ Samuel answered, ‘Speak, for your servant is listening.’ Samuel grew up, and the LORD was with him, not permitting any word of his to be without effect.” (1 Sam 3: 9-10. 19)

Samuel is a very good example for us, listeners to words of the Lord. What we can do is to take one or two words from the daily readings as a direction or suggestion for us for this particular day with a goal: “Not permitting any word of His to be without effect”–being more gentle, more respectful, more giving than demanding, spending more time with our spouses (more sometimes is just 5 minutes), more patient and more pure in our hearts and bodies. Every day we will find a variety of occasions to practice cooperation with God’s words. His word is always about His compassionate, unconditional love for us. Our role is to keep His word alive in our hearts and relationships.

“We have found the Messiah: Jesus Christ, who brings us truth and grace.” (Gospel Acclamation)