COMMENTARY

1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26
Hannah gives her first child, Samuel, to the service of Yahweh under the high priest, Eli, at Shiloh where Samuel grew physically and spiritually. Samuel was the answer to Hannah's prayer for a child. When she weaned him, she took him to Eli at Shiloh to serve Yahweh permanently. Each year when Hannah came to worship, she brought Samuel a handmade robe. The little lad, wearing a linen apron-like vestment, an ephod, ministered to Yahweh. In this service Samuel grew physically and in favor with God and people. The boy was a contrast to the evil son-priests of Eli.

Sirach 24:1-4, 8-12
God promises to restore captive Israel with prosperity and rejoicing. A call to honor earthly parents, who reflect to us the parentage of God.

Colossians 3:12-17
As God's ch…