As we read and reflect on the 1st Reading and the Psalm today, we note the shift of emotions within Hannah: from despondency and disappointment to energized vibrancy. What stood out were the words and the physical manifestations of Hannah. In the 1st Reading - she had 'bitterness of soul ... many tears ... distressed ... a woman in great trouble ... filled with grief and resentment ... and was dejected.' And then as we read the Psalm - Hannah says, "my heart exults ... my mouth laughs ... I rejoice ...". Who caused the shift?

The first was Eli, the priest. He told her, "Go in peace, and may ... God ... grant what you have asked of God."' He blessed her with peace and gave her hope.

The second was Hannah herself. What did she do? She returned to the hall to eat ... was dejected no longer ... rose early in the morning ... and worshipped God. By trusting God and acting positively, she changed her personal outlook on her situation in life.

The third was God, the Lord Almighty. God caused the childless Hannah to conceive and she gave birth to Samuel, her first-born.

Today, as we struggle with our difficult personal life issues - let us always remember the wonderful and encouraging words that others bless us with in our daily life; let us place our trust in God and be positive and proactive in meeting life's challenges; and let us remember that we have a God Who listens to our prayers and will answer us at God's chosen time (Kairos - Greek).