In today’s first reading, God calls Samuel by name, but it takes Samuel 3 times to recognize that it is the Lord. Samuel did not know the Lord at that time, so he was confused and believed that Eli had called him. What Samuel did not know at the time, is that God had a purpose and a great plan for his life, to use him to speak to the people of Israel and to give him the gift of prophecy. Just like Samuel, God has called us by name to fulfill a purpose and he has a plan for our lives. Like Samuel, we may also be confused about who had called us. God may want to use us in ways that we cannot fathom because we have a limited understanding. Samuel answered God’s call, and listened to God. He did not hesitate nor question, allowing God to fulfill his purpose. God continued to reveal himself to Samuel and used him to prophesy to the people of Israel. Samuel did not hide God’s truth and spoke of what God revealed to him. Let us speak of God’s love and faithfulness and share his goodness with others.

Abba Father, thank you for calling us by name and choosing us to do your will. Amen.