Today’s Reading: Matthew 5:14-16

When I read scripture, I don’t often read through large chunks at a time, as one has to do when reading about Samuel. In preparation for this week’s devotional, though, I did, and as I read, there was one thought that kept coming up for me, one thing I kept noticing: Samuel seems pretty crabby most of the time! I kept finding myself wanting to tell Samuel to lighten up! Or as my mom says, you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar, but Samuel seems like he is full of vinegar. It’s not just Samuel, though. He is merely the first in a long line of prophets who have a tendency to be on the moody side.

While I’m a bit embarrassed to admit it, when I read the stories of these cranky prophets, I feel a sense of relief! The truth is that sometimes, I can be pretty sour myself. It gives me great comfort that God was able to use Samuel (and the other prophets) anyway… and not just in a small way. Samuel plays a huge role in the unfolding of the story of God. His grouchiness is not an obstacle for God! This gives me hope that God can use us, too, that are groans and complaints will not stop God from using us. I trust that even when we are not feeling at all light-hearted, God can use us as a light to reach others.

May this be your prayer today and every day: God, whether I am at my best or at my worst today, prepare my heart and use me as a vessel to share your light with others. Amen.