Theme: God shows great intensity in our lives when we are in difficulties.
Today’s first reading (1 Sam 3:1-10, 19-20) gives a glimpse in the life of a little boy, Samuel. In those days, Yahweh spoke rarely with people. The visions had become uncommon. So there was less assistance from God. Eli, the teacher of faith had lost the vision. His eyes were grown dim so he could not see. Hannah, Samuel’s mother had made a vow that she would surrender Samuel to the Lord under the guidance of Eli (Yesterday’s reading). But Eli was becoming physically weak. So there was less assistance from the teacher too. Samuel himself had no capacity to make his own decision because he was just a young boy. Samuel’s life was without any hopes and full of darkness (it was a night). In such difficulties, Yahweh/God calls Samuel three times.
The number three has a special significance in the bible and specially for the Hebrew people. It appears in the bible for more than 467 times. The number three has many meanings but it usually means harmony, new life or completeness. One each example will help us to understand it better. We believe in Triune God. All the three persons of the Trinity live in harmony. Jesus rose from the dead on the third day. It signifies new life. The wholeness is seen in the number three in many examples such as the universe is made of heaven, earth and waters; the human being is made of body, soul and the spirit. Along with these meanings, we find yet another meaning of number three that is intensity. It is seen in the life of Jesus. Jesus was tempted by Satan three times (Lk 4:1-13). Jesus went to pray in the garden of Gethsemane three times (Mt. 26:4). Jesus told Peter “feed my sheep” three times. (Jn. 21:15-17).
When Yahweh/God called Samuel three times, God shows more intensity in Samuel’s life which was full of difficulties, uncertainties and darkness. The reading further tells us that Yahweh was with him. In the Gospel, Jesus, the Son of God shows great intensity in the lives of people with pain and suffering. Peter’s mother in law represents all of them. He cures her and the rest of the people. Those who were in difficulties, now begin to serve others.
Do you experience difficulties in your life? Is your life full of darkness? Trust in Jesus! He comes to you. He calls you by your name. You only need to come into His presence. He will take control of your life for he shows great intensity in you because he loves you.
