A read of the first book of Samuel: a great help for the days ahead. Today the prophet's call is recalled. It is young Samuel's beginning of his on journey. Three times called by God, Samuel thought the voice was his mentor, Eli. Finally Eli realized what was happening. He told Samuel to answer "Lord, your servant is listening." Again God called and Samuel replied as directed. You know the rest of the story. Samuel was recognized as a prophet.
Any part of a journey, especially a spiritual journey, is a response to a calling. Whether from within the heart or from an event or happenstance, God calls the traveler to step forward, usually into an unknown where great trust is required.
Samuel was in a place of quiet. He could hear God call. Today such a luxury is often lacking in many peoples' lives. Today we are invited to be like Jesus in the gospel of today's liturgy. Caught up in the healing of many who came to see him after they heard he had cured Peter and Andrew's mother, Jesus retired. Early, and obviously with quiet, he leaves the house for solitude so he could dialog with his Father. Even Jesus needed some quiet to continue the Father's support in his calling.
Do you hear God when he calls you? If you feel that God does not speak to you in any manner, you should face the mirror and ask if you are setting aside some time to be with God. Did you ever consider that silence, quiet, solitude with the Lord is the pulpit he uses to speak to you. And, most likely, if you did not realize it, there must have been a quiet moment that allowed God to get through to you. How did God put you on your journey?
