Advent Devotional: Dec 19
1 Samuel 2:1-10 | Genesis 17:15-22 | Galatians 4:8-20
He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor. (1 Samuel 2:8a)
Ancient cultures in the land of Israel were patriarchal. This means the households, family, and community structures were led by men. Women were not typically permitted to own property or manage wealth. Having a son was the best way for a woman to ensure her own safety and well-being as she aged. This is why Sarah (in the book of Genesis) and Hannah (in 1 Samuel) both struggled with the fact that they had not born sons while other women in their families did. Women who could not or did not have sons experienced shame and, sometimes, judgment from their neighbors.
In today’s scripture from 1 Samuel we read Hannah’s prayer of thanksgiving and praise in response to God blessing her with a son. For Hannah, the birth of Samuel was an act of justice. She would no longer be powerless or face an uncertain future. Her future was secure and this demonstrated God’s care for her.
The blessings Sarah and Hannah received in giving birth to their sons foreshadowed the blessings that God the Father has for all of creation through the work of Jesus the Messiah, God the Son. God has always been on the side of those who are poor and powerless. This is why Christ came into our world. Apart from God, we are completely powerless in the face of brokenness, sin, and death. We are poor in spirit and in need of grace. The birth of Jesus secures a place in the household of God for anyone who will follow him.
Prayer response: Father, you sent the Son into our world because of your great love and care for us. We praise you for bringing us out of darkness and into your marvelous light. Fill us with your grace and perfect us in your love. Guide us with your Spirit into all truth and grant us the honor of sharing your love with others. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit we pray. Amen.
Readings from the Revised Common Lectionary
Scripture taken from Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011, Biblica, Inc.
Reflection by Rev. Serena J. Wolfe
