Today’s Catholic Reflection
Hannah felt deep sorrow because she could not have children. In her anguish, she prayed earnestly at the temple in Shiloh. She made a vow to the Lord, promising to dedicate her son to God if He granted her one. Eli, the priest, initially thought she was drunk but later blessed her and told her to go in peace. Soon after, Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son named Samuel, honoring her vow to the Lord.
In the Gospel, Jesus teaches in the synagogue at Capernaum. His words astonish the people with their authority. A man possessed by an unclean spirit recognizes Jesus and cries out in fear. Jesus commands the spirit to leave, and it obeys. This moment adds to Jesus' growing reputation as a teacher with divine authority throughout Galilee.