June 28

1 Samuel 1:19–28

Prayers for the Children

In the next part of Hannah’s story, we learn how God remembers her. Hannah gives birth to Samuel, whose name carries the memory of being heard by God. When the time comes, Hannah brings Samuel to the house of God at Shiloh and presents him in fulfillment of her vow. This is a tender and complicated text about prayer and promise. Hannah recognizes Samuel’s life as answered prayer, and responds by entrusting him to God’s purpose. 

Questions for Worship Preparation:

• What prayers are you carrying for the children in your life and in our world?
• What does it mean to love a child without trying to possess their future?