Christian faith requires not only a steadfastness of belief but also the courage of heart to ask for help when that steadfastness falters. Christ prayed regularly and passionately. He did not do so out of any doubt of God’s existence. It was out of a love for God and a yearning for healing in this world.
I know many who use their beliefs as a shield against life’s struggles. But Jesus seems to have used his faith as a net, to take in with compassion the struggles and pains of his ministry and his community, then bring them to God in prayer. Following Jesus, I need not let fear stop me from crying to God or God’s servants for help. I can walk through that feeling of vulnerability to follow Jesus, to sit alone or with followers of Christ, and say: My God, my God, I do not know where you are active in my life (as I am sure you are), but I need you now, tangible and tenacious.
God of faith and faltering, please give me Hannah and Samuel's faith. I want to know you will save me, but also have the gumption to reach out against the crowds, to cry out in the temple, and touch that hem of life that is Jesus the Christ. Amen. — LCS