Excerpt from 1 Samuel 16:1-13

"Samuel took one look at Eliab and thought, 'Here he is!'" (The Message)

Reflection by William C. Green

Maybe just one look was all it took for you to know exactly how you felt when you met your spouse or partner. But another look can challenge the happiest romance and the best relationships as circumstances and feelings change. 

Samuel found that God required him to take another look for the right man to be king. The prophet had been smitten by Eliab because he was tall and handsome. God said no, looks aren't everything. Samuel then looked at Eliab's brothers, each of whom seemed king-like in appearance and stature. God asked if there was anyone else. It turned out there was one, the youngest brother—but he was out tending sheep and had the least status in the family. That was David. After many another look he was the one chosen.

Searching for the perfect partner, like the perfect church, we'll never find one. But looking again at what's before us we may find something we've overlooked. We may say "No, this is not for me," as God had to say several times to Samuel. But another look could lead us to say, "Yes, this really is for me" — maybe adding, "after all."

Prayer

Sometimes just one look is not enough to see what you want me to see, God. Be my vision when I look again. Amen.

About the Author William C. Green, a United Church of Christ minister, is the Director of Long Looking, a consultancy service specializing in fundraising and education for congregations. His new book, 52 Ways to Ignite Your Congregation: Generous Giving, has just been published.

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