PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: 1 Samuel 1-2
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who will do according to what
is in my heart and mind.” (1 Samuel 2:35)
God created us to be His priests, His representatives on earth (Genesis 1:26-28).
But like Hophni and Phinehas, we have failed our responsibilities for selfish gain.
God’s judgment rests on us as well, but also His promise for a faithful priest.
Through history, there have been many faithful servants like Samuel.
But none of us, no matter how ‘holy’ we try to be, measure up to our original nature.
The world was created to be led by God-like faithful priests who obey God’s heart and mind.
“For this reason he had to be made like us, fully human in every way, that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and make atonement for the sins of the people.” (Hebrews 2:17)
Jesus is God’s faithful high priest, He is God’s perfect representative on earth.
In Him God’s kingdom is restored (Genesis 1:26-28), a God-like-human ruling over creation.
Jesus restores our connection to God, so that His word is heard once again (1 Samuel 3:1).
Today’s reading reminds me why we need Jesus… someone to be God’s faithful priest FOR us.
I am encouraged to know that even though I fail, He is faithful in my place!
PRAYER
Lord, I am aware of the ways I do not fulfill God’s heart and mind. Thank You for covering for me, and for assuring me of God’s love, forgiveness, acceptance and restoration!
Hophni and Phinehas – sons of the Priest and then Samuel son of devoted believers Hannah and Elkanah. Seems like the H&P abused their entitlement and raped the women serving at the temple gates – Eli scolded them but didn’t do much else. Samuel came as a gift – a first born son that Hannah had committed to the Lord. He was not entitled – yet he willingly served – with the blessing of his parents – he did not need to be scolded. Samuel had the heart for service to the Lord. I too must not do just because its tradition or deemed right to do – rather I must serve because its heartfelt – I want to offer myself to the Lord. Forgive me Lord and help me not to get in the way!
Created to serve.
Samuel was a gift from the Lord and his mother lent her only son at that time to the Lord . Hannah also knew where to turn with her ‘problems’ – taking it all yo the Lord in prayer.
I too need to ‘talk’ daily with God and as I live this day in His presence I continue to live for Him serving those around me in Jesus name. May I be an instrument of His peace serving in His Kingdom.
Make me a servant
Humble and meek
Lord let me lift up
Those who are weak
And may the prayer
Of my heart always be
Make me a servant
Make me a servant
Make me a servant today