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    Among God’s leaders during this time was Samuel, the last of Israel’s judges. Before his birth his mother dedicated him to God’s service, and when he was just a child, she took him to Shioh to be an apprentice to the high priest of the tabernacle. Although Eli, the high priest, had constant trouble with his own evil sons, Samuel was a willing student. And God had plans for him that no one could have predicted. Samuel would, in fact, be taught by God himself.

    The corruption of Eli’s sons mirrored the nation itself. Many people had turned to worshiping false gods, and God had again grown displeased with his chosen people. It had been a long time since anyone had heard God’s voice, and most had stopped listening. That was about to change.

The LORD came and stood there and called as he had before, “Samuel, Samuel!” Samuel said, “Speak, LORD. I am your servant and I am listening.” The LORD was with Samuel as he grew up; he did not let any of Samuel’s messages fail to come true. Then all Israel, from Dan to Beersheba, knew Samuel was a true prophet of the LORD. 1 SAMUEL 3:10, 19-20

    Beside the glow of God’s perpetual candle in the tabernacle, young Samuel lay down for the evening. Four times he was awakened by a voice calling out in the darkness — “Samuel!” At first Samuel thought it was Eli, but the voice wasn’t Eli’s. It was God himself, calling Samuel by name. From that night forward, God and Samuel talked often.

    God had special plans for this young man. As Samuel grew into manhood, God made him into a powerful national leader, a faithful prophet, and a dependable priest.

Reflection: Imagine the heart-pounding, attention-grabbing, soul-stirring experience of hearing God’s voice in the darkness — calling you by name. Has there been a time when the ears of your soul heard God call you by name? Have you ever been quiet, totally quiet, long enough to hear him? God knows our names, and he calls us into service. Not until the end of time will he force us to listen.