SUNDAY – The Baptism of the Lord

I did go to Mass in the little church round the corner and that probably was a mistake. Difficult to stand but the readings are lovely.

“Let every valley be filled and every mountain and hill be laid low, let every cliff become a plain.” (Isaiah 4)

MONDAY

I am resting up at home after a small operation. The days go slowly. I read “Dreadnought”, a history of the origins of the First World War. I cannot even totter off to go to Mass round the corner or visit the House of Commons. If this is what retirement is like, no thank you!

Psalm 115: “A thanksgiving sacrifice I make to you, O Lord. How can I repay the Lord for his goodness to me?”

TUESDAY

Hannah seems desperate but persistence pays off.

“O Lord of hosts! If thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thy servant and hear me and not forget your servant and give her a man child I will give him to the Lord for the whole of his life.” (1 Samuel 1:9-20)

WEDNESDAY

Three times the Lord calls to Samuel. The first two, he thinks it is Eli calling out. Only on the third occasion does he listen. Why is everything in threes?

“Eli then understood that it was the Lord who was calling the boy and he said to Samuel, ‘Go and lie down and if someone calls say ‘Speak Lord, your servant is listening.’’” (1 Samuel 3:1-10, 19-30)

Are we listening?

THURSDAY

1 Samuel 4:1-11

The Philistines take heart, defeat is not inevitable.

“Alas who will save us from the power of this mighty God!”

FRIDAY

I was well enough to leave the house and go to the Commons. What a relief.

Samuel talks of what a king will do.

“He will make them plough his ploughland and harvest his harvest and make his harvest and make his weapons of war.” (1 Samuel 8:4-7)

Plus ca change.

SATURDAY

I watch the latest Star Wars movie. Shame that in real life there is no really obvious good and bad.

“Samuel took a phial of oil and poured it on his head, then kissed him saying, Has not the Lord anointed you?” (1 Samuel 9)