Scripture: 1st Samuel 1:10
Hannah was very upset and couldn’t stop crying as she prayed to the LORD.
Thought for the Day: I came across a number of images and paintings depicting this scene from 1st Samuel. In each case, Hannah was kneeling, and she was looking up toward heaven with her hands clasped in a very holy posture. She looks so reverent and proper. Religious art seems to want to present Bible characters in very sterile and unrealistic ways. Hannah is described as “very upset” (heartbroken) and unable to stop crying. I don’t wish to be rude, but I picture snot, blubbering and undignified sounds. There might have been fist shaking at heaven or pounding on the ground. It’s a less than pretty picture, yet I think prayer and God are very receptive to such emotions. There have been a few times in my life when I have sobbed uncontrollably. It was not a pretty picture, and I am rather thankful no one had a cellphone camera. Being honest and transparent in prayer, even in our worst moments, helps to create a healthy and trusting rapport with God…a rapport that will be beneficial in other moments of life.
Prayer: Thank you, Gracious God, for this moment where you are fully available for all that I bring to it. Amen.
DON’T MISS WORSHIP
Continuing our trip to the well
THE DAY HAS ARRIVED
