As his mother walked him to the tabernacle doors, little Samuel’s eyes must have grown wide. Dark clouds billowed from the corners of God’s house, which ought to have been a place of safety and love. Hophni and Phinehas, the sons of Eli (the High Priest), were bringing disgrace with their wicked ways.

Did Hannah wonder if Samuel could preserve his pure heart as she tenderly gave Eli charge of her small son? This child of God did not appear to belong in Eli’s chaotic world. However, Samuel would demonstrate that seedlings of faith can sprout even in corrupt soil.

Samuel “served the Lord” with excellence from the very beginning (1 Samuel 3:1). Among the cacophonous noise of sin, he trained his ears to hear the calling voice of God. Samuel looked for the one thing he needed, despite the world’s protestations of distractions: to sit at the feet of the Living God, and say … “Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening”.

Over time, Samuel observed self-centered leaders abusing their power. He witnessed people “turn aside after empty things” that profited nothing (1 Samuel 12:21). Samuel, however, firmly grounded himself on the unshakable truth that “the Lord will not forsake his people” (1 Samuel 12:22).

Samuel remained an oasis of persistent prayer and innocent trust in the midst of a spiritual wasteland. He resolved that “far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you” (12:23), taking no short cuts in his pursuit of righteousness.

Samuel had nurtured the unique ruby-red gemstone of unchanging excellence. He blocked out the world’s refracting gloom by concentrating on God’s bright presence. His was a life of ultimate significance, resolute faith, and inspirational consistency.

Friends, we too can brighten the night, for the same Spirit hovering over Samuel stirs deep within us.