Today's first reading introduces the boy who will be priest, young Samuel who is God's choice to take the role from Eli (instead of Eli's two sons, who are both more interested in using the priesthood for personal gain than in serving God). Samuel, who is an assistant to the aging Eli, hears the voice of God calling him, but he requires Eli's instructions on how to respond and listen to God.
[links to Bible Gateway open in a new window]
Reading the Bible in Its Entirety
The second selection tells how Samuel's sons are as disappointing as Eli's sons, which leads to a public outcry for a king to take control and rule the Israelites. Samuel shares God's warning that a king will place heavy burdens on the people -- and that it is another example of how the people are unable to place complete faith in God.
[links to Bible Gateway open in a new window]
If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read 1 Samuel 1-7 today.
