By Jessica Davila, a senior molecular biology/biochemistry and psychology double major from Goshen
Scripture: 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 (NRSV)
Sometimes we feel that we are too busy with exams, readings, work and all sorts of things and forget to take the time to thank God for what we are today, for the privilege God has granted us to be here: Studying and working at a liberal arts college in one of the richest countries of the world. 1 Samuel 2:20 reminds us that we must have some gratitude and thank the Lord for the things we take for granted.
We must thank him for those times that we have felt that the world might as well sink,
and yet, we keep on going.
We only ask for more.
We ask and ask but never thank.
We do not see how privileged we already are.
We believe we are freedom-bound.
We believe that we may do with our lives as we desire.
But there is so much injustice, prejudice, racism and discrimination that control us.
These are part of the system that controls us as a society.
Yet, we keep on going.
We keep on going and happiness comes
And we do not notice.
We do not notice
how much more we have in comparison to so many people around the world.
We have so much more than those who live in poverty,
those who drown in lament and suffering.
As we approach Christmas,
we must to remember that for that and much more,
WE SHOULD BE THANKFUL.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 (NRSV)
Samuel was ministering before the Lord, a boy wearing a linen ephod. 19His mother used to make for him a little robe and take it to him each year, when she went up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice. 20Then Eli would bless Elkanah and his wife, and say, “May the Lord repay you with children by this woman for the gift that she made to the Lord”; and then they would return to their home. 26Now the boy Samuel continued to grow both in stature and in favor with the Lord and with the people.