When Jesus' fledgling disciples began to trust him with simple household difficulties like a fever, Jesus responded simply and directly from his heart. Jesus was interested in them and their concerns and cared for them without ceremony or conditions.

So it is with God's grace, received by an open and faithful heart. A heart prepared prayerfully and wholly available to receiving others where they are, without fear or favour. It matters not the place: in a very public synagogue or a poor humble house. God's grace makes its spiritual and healing presence felt without preamble or pretence.

Through his ministry in Galilee, Jesus conveyed the grace of God the Father humbly and willingly. Even his time of prayer, important as it is, was put aside to see to the pressing needs of others. With the grace of God comes responsibility, and God's grace always suffices as long as we are present to God.

Called by baptism to be God's holy people, each of us are called in unique ways, just as the prophet Samuel was. And by baptism, we too share in Jesus' mission.

Do we always listen attentively and obediently to the Lord in prayer?

Are we willing to walk with Him wherever He may lead us?