1 Kingdoms (1 Samuel) 2:11Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

This young man grew to be remarkably courageous and great. When God withdrew His presence from the Jewish people due to their rampant wickedness, ceasing to speak through prophets or visions, this youth, through his virtuous character, humbled himself and pleaded for the restoration of prophetic gifts among them. It was during his youth, at a time when "the word of the Lord was rare in those days" (1 Kings 3:1), that he often received divine revelations. It is vital to offer all that we possess to God, relinquishing not only our material wealth but even our own children. If we are instructed to surrender our souls (Matthew 16:24, 25), we should certainly do so with everything else we hold dear.

Abraham exemplified this devotion, and as a reward, he received his son back with even greater blessing. In truth, we are particularly united with our children when we entrust them to the Lord. He will care for them far surpassingly, as He has a deeper love and compassion for them than we do.

Have you not observed this dynamic in the households of the affluent? The servants who remain with their families often lack the same prominence and empowerment as those taken from their parents to serve their masters. These latter individuals gain significant favor and dignity, reflecting the distinction between masters and slaves. If earthly lords can show such generosity to their servants, how much more can the Supreme Goodness, God, manifest His love? Let us release our children to serve, not merely in the earthly temple as Samuel did, but in the heavenly realms alongside angels. The commitment of those who devote themselves to such service is evident; they will intercede with boldness not just for themselves but for you as well. If some have earned favor through their fathers, how much more will fathers gain favor for their children, as familial nurture carries a deeper significance than mere lineage.

Thus, dear father, let us heed the wise guidance imparted by the blessed apostle Paul: let us rear our children "in the teaching and admonition of the Lord" (Eph. 6:4), providing them with examples and encouraging them to engage in the Scriptures from an early age. I often voice these sentiments, perhaps in futility, yet I shall not waver in my responsibility. Why, I ask, do you not emulate our ancestors? Especially you women should aspire to the exemplary ancient matriarchs. When you bear a child, follow the example of Anna. Consider her actions: she dedicated her son at once to the service of God. Who among you would not prefer their son to become a Samuel rather than a ruler of all the earth?

You may ask how this can be achieved. It is only deemed impossible because of a lack of desire or trust in the One who can effect such outcomes—namely, God. Therefore, Anna entrusted her son to Him. Not even Elijah was wholly capable of raising him, considering he struggled with his own children. Yet, Anna’s faith and commitment accomplished what seemed unattainable. After giving birth to her firstborn, uncertain if she would bear more, she did not delay on account of waiting for the child's upbringing in comfort. Instead, she focused solely on dedicating her child to God from the very beginning.

We men should take heed of this wisdom that Anna exemplified. She presented her child to God and left him there, which also honored her marital covenant. In presenting her firstborn to God, she prioritized spiritual matters, leading to her fertility and subsequently bearing more children. Thus, she witnessed the respect her son garnered in society. If humankind shows honor in reciprocal relationships, how much more will God, who often blesses freely without seeking honor for Himself?