Samuel is considered Israel's 1st prophet. He began a new form of ministry. The older form, the priesthood, emphasized worship through offering sacrifices that were often expressions of repentance. Prophecy emphasized the "word of the Lord,' that creative, redemptive voice of God that speaks on specific occasions. It may come as judgement. It may inspire change. It may breathe faith and hope. In various ways it relates religion to daily life.
These two functions - the sacrificial and the prophetic - are still characteristic of religion.
What do we need most of all from God?
Should children be encouraged to surpass their elders?
What sacrifices does Christian discipleship require?
PRAYER: - Help us to keep our religion relevant to the needs of the world, O God, by attuning our ears to hear your Word. - AMEN!