1 Samuel 1:1-8
Psalm 115(116):12-19
Mark 1:14-20
Today, the first reading discusses Samuel’s birth, the last judge of Israel who established the monarchy. After Moses, Joshua led Israel, followed by judges. The first book of Samuel starts with Elkanah, who had two wives. Peninnah mocked Hannah for being barren; Hannah felt diminished and abandoned by God. During those times, barrenness was seen as a curse due to wickedness, and children, especially sons, were a blessing. Despite Peninnah’s scorn, Elkanah loved Hannah deeply, valuing her more than ten sons. I am learning that our WORTH and LOVABILITY do not depend on others’ words or actions. No one can make us feel worthless unless we give them that power.
God loves us passionately and endlessly, a love reflected in the incarnation we just celebrated. It’s astonishing that the Creator of stars, oceans, mountains, and creatures loves me. I hope to accept this truth more each day and help others do the same. When I believe this, I see that my core, the true me, is unbreakable. I draw strength from it and choose to live in God’s truth, not external judgments or my harsh self-criticism.
Recognizing this helps me see others as beloved of God despite their flaws, fostering compassion. Critical feedback can be helpful if honest; it can lead to growth. However, criticism meant to ridicule, like Peninnah’s, comes from the other person’s hurt and insecurity. That reflects more on them than on me. My worth is rooted in God’s love and my identity in Him. As we enter Ordinary Time, I pray to stay grounded in who I am in Christ and to nurture what God has begun in me. Though Christmas has passed, we still proclaim Emmanuel, God’s presence with us.
Fr Joseph Osho
