Good morning good people, May the Lord bless you with peace and blessings in the Holy Spirit. It is 13th January 2026. We reflect on 1 Samuel 1:9–20 and Mark 1:21–28.
St John Chrysostom taught us: “Prayer is the light of the soul, giving us true knowledge of God. By prayer the soul is borne up to heaven and in a marvellous way embraces the Lord. This meeting is like that of an infant crying on its mother, and seeking the best of milk.”
Regular prayer is the medicine and manure of the soul—it heals us and helps us grow. Anything done without prayer quietly questions its authenticity. Prayer is like a telescope: it brings God closer to our lived reality. It lifts the soul, sustains hope, and grants spiritual authority over evil.
When we pray deeply, we may be misunderstood by onlookers, but never by God. God never abandons our prayers or petitions. The time we spend in prayer is not lost; it is the time God uses to prepare us to receive what is worthy.
The first reading shows Hannah praying sincerely for a son (1 Sam 1:11), and God answered her through Eli’s blessing: “Go in peace; the God of Israel grant the petition you have made” (1 Sam 1:17). God responds to sincerity of heart. Prayer is our privilege, responsibility, and inner strength. It is not only for favors, but for communion with a God who loves and cares.
The Gospel teaches that true spiritual authority flows from communion with God, not from moving between churches or belonging to a group. Institutions offer means, but authority is born in personal prayer and good works. Jesus taught with power because His words flowed from His union with the Father: “Even unclean spirits obey Him” (Mk 1:27).
Our authority comes from deep faith in Jesus. Let us deepen that faith and draw strength to face the evil within us and around us.
May God bless you.