This reading opens with the phrase, “The word of the Lord was rare in those days; visions were not widespread.” I wonder if, in those days, the Lord was very much present and speaking, but people weren’t very good at listening and watching. In taking stock of the world as it is today, might we say that the word of the Lord is rare and that visions are not widespread? Do you ever watch the news and wonder where God is in all this? Mr. Rogers famously said, “When I was a boy and would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people helping.’”
People helping others is a clear example of God speaking people into action and a vision of God working through acts of compassion, kindness, and sacrifice. Eli had a special role for Samuel, helping him to understand that the voice calling in the night was God. What practices help you be more open to listening for the voice of God? In what situations might God be calling you to be a helper? If you thought God was calling you into action, who would you go to for affirmation or guidance?
Today, set a timer for 3 minutes and, focusing on your breath, repeat, “Speak, O Lord. Your servant is listening.”