«The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth»
(Psalm 145:18).
The woman had a pink Barbie backpack, a brown purse, filled with big things that aren’t usually carried around in a purse, a plastic bag and a lifeless gaze.
We opened the cathedral door together and entered with the reverence characteristic of those who know they’re entering a holy place not because the building is in and of itself special, but because they know who they went to meet there.
With anguish, despair and helplessness sketched on her prematurely aged 35-year-old face, she knelt down. She left her belongings at the mercy of those caring for the place and devoted herself completely to praying.
It was high noon.
She and I were the only ones inside and, although we exchanged a few short phrases before entering, I decided to grant her the space I thought she needed to have.
I sat a few pews in front of her and, even though I didn’t pray and my beliefs were probably different from hers, we shared a sincere heart in common.
Five minutes later, she left. A man also prompted me to leave the premises. He turned off the lights, turned the keys and closed up.
I left in silence, thinking I had met a modern-day Hannah that day, but also aware that there are no churches, cathedrals, monasteries or mosques that can contain the God in which we believe.
No one can kick us out if we have an appointment with the King. We can carry out a conversation with Him inside, but also outside.
All those we encounter today at noon will be immersed in their worries and experiences, and will have a need.
Pay attention. You might meet a modem-day Hannah for whom to intercede. You might need to pour out your heart like she did.
Don’t let even a little time go by without talking to Him. He’s close to those who call on Him.
» Hannah ‘s prayer was unheard by mortal ear, but entered the ear of the
Lord of hosts. Earnestly she pleaded that God would take away her reproach . Hannah had been communing with God. She believed that her prayer had been heard, and the peace of Christ filled her heart» (Prayer, ch. 13, p. 132). May that same peace fill your heart today wherever you may be.