Hannah leaves Samuel at Israel鈥檚 place of worship. What a sacrifice for a woman who has waited so long for a child! The priest Eli has two sons who have no regard for God or his people. They are stealing the people鈥檚 sacrifices that are intended for God. Israel only had one place they could go to make these sacrifices, and they were being prevented from doing so.
When leaders sin, it is especially harmful! What鈥檚 worse is that Eli doesn鈥檛 do anything to prevent his sons from doing this. What a contrast. Eli is willing to see all of Israel frustrated in worship to protect his sons. Hannah is willing to give up her own son to see God served. Are you willing to make the hard choices in the service of God?