The first reading reveals the power of prayer and reminds us that sincere prayer is not always understood by others. As Hannah poured out her heart before the Lord in anguish, Eli the priest misunderstood her. Hannah’s perseverance and sacrifice taught Samuel to keep seeking the Lord until an answer came. Later, we see this same persistence reflected in Samuel, as he goes repeatedly to Eli asking, ‘Did you call me?’: a sign that the spirit of attentive faith had already taken root within him. In today’s Gospel we see how Jesus too was misunderstood. The people were astonished by his authority but not everyone grasped who he truly was. Throughout his ministry, Jesus faced criticism, and rejection from those who could not see the divine power behind his words and actions. Being misunderstood is not a reason to give up. When others misjudge our prayer or our calling let us persevere and trust that God understands our hearts.

PRAYER: Abba Father, strengthen me so that I may persevere. Amen.