Sene 9 — June 16

Samuel, the Boy Who Heard God

Long, long ago there lived a woman named Hannah who loved God very much. She had no children, and that made her sad. So she prayed and prayed, asking God for a baby. God heard her, and He gave her a little boy named Samuel.

Hannah was so thankful that she made a promise to God. When Samuel was still small, she brought him to the Temple, God's special house of prayer, to help an old priest named Eli. A priest is one of God's helpers who serves in His house. Samuel grew up there, learning to serve God every day.

One night, as Samuel lay down to sleep, he heard a voice call his name. He thought it was Eli, so he ran to him and said, "Here I am! Did you call me?" But Eli said, "No, go back to bed." This happened again and again. Then wise old Eli understood: it was God who was calling. He told Samuel what to say. The next time the voice came, Samuel answered just right.

When Samuel grew up, he became a great prophet, the kind of person who listens to God and tells others what God has said. God used Samuel to choose the first kings of Israel. Samuel led God's people kindly for many years, and then he died in peace. We remember him today as a friend who always listened for God's voice.

Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.— based on 1 Samuel 3:9

Lucianus and His Four Friends

Once there was a man named Lucianus who did not yet know the true God. His job was to take care of idols, statues that people wrongly worshipped. An idol is only a pretend god made of wood or stone. It cannot see or hear, and it cannot help anyone.

One day Lucianus saw something he could hardly believe. Some people who loved Jesus were placed in a great fire, but the fire did not hurt them at all. They walked about, safe and happy, singing songs to God. It was just like three brave young men in an old Bible story whom God once kept safe in a fiery furnace.

When Lucianus saw this, his heart filled with wonder. He thought, "My idols can do nothing, but this God is real and strong!" So he stopped serving the idols and said out loud, "I am a Christian! I belong to Jesus now."

The ruler did not like this and tried to frighten him, but Lucianus was not afraid. Four other friends who also loved Jesus stood beside him bravely. When they were put near a fire, God sent a great rain from the sky that put the fire right out. Lucianus and his four friends stayed faithful to the very end, and they went home to be with God forever. They were not afraid, because they trusted that God was waiting to welcome them with joy.

I am a Christian! I belong to Jesus now.

Two Good Bishops, John and 'Arkola

Today we also remember two faithful church leaders named John and 'Arkola. Both of them were bishops, shepherds who watch over many churches and help God's people grow in love.

They spent their lives praying, teaching, and looking after the people God gave them. We thank God for kind leaders like John and 'Arkola, and we ask them to pray for us too.