I Samuel 2:1-10 (NRSV)
Read I Samuel 2:1-10 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 2Hannah prayed and said, "My heart exults in the Lord; my strength is exalted in my God. My mouth derides my enemies, because I rejoice in my victory. Verse 2"There is no Holy One like the Lord, no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God. Verse 3Talk no more so very proudly, let not arrogance come from your mouth; for the Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed. Verse 4The bows of the mighty are broken, but the feeble gird on strength. Verse 5Those who were full have hired themselves out for bread, but those who were hungry are fat with spoil. The barren has borne seven, but she who has many children is forlorn. Verse 6The Lord kills and brings to life; he brings down to Sheol and raises up. Verse 7The Lord makes poor and makes rich; he brings low, he also exalts. Verse 8He raises up the poor from the dust; he lifts the needy from the ash heap, to make them sit with princes and inherit a seat of honor. For the pillars of the earth are the Lord's, and on them he has set the world. Verse 9"He will guard the feet of his faithful ones, but the wicked shall be cut off in darkness; for not by might does one prevail. Verse 10The Lord! His adversaries shall be shattered; the Most High will thunder in heaven. The Lord will judge the ends of the earth; he will give strength to his king, and exalt the power of his anointed."
Devotion
Hannah knew longing—and waiting in darkness. For years she bore the barren realities of an empty womb and vacant arms. While others poured wine and celebrated, she poured out her anguished soul to the Lord (1 Samuel 1:15). God answered her prayer. Samuel was born. But with remarkable strength, she leaves him as a young boy in Shiloh to grow up serving in God’s temple. Then, even more remarkably, she prays, “My heart exults in the Lord; my strength is exalted in my God” (1 Samuel 2:1). Her strength comes from the God who led her out of darkness. As Christmas comes closer, life’s disappointments dampen my spirits while festivities whirl around me. I light all four Advent candles for the second day, and their light pierces the darkness with Emmanuel’s strength for me as well.
Prayer
When our hearts are empty and weary, Christ, be our light. Amen.