After Samuel’s prophesy about the house of Eli falling, the Philistines attack Israel. Eli’s corrupt sons are killed and the Ark of the Covenant is taken.

The Israelites are bereft, Eli drops dead – but it is just as bad for the Philistines, who all start getting tumors and dying.

So they send the Ark of the Covenant back, and it is returned to the place God wants it to be.

Psalm 13 is similarly bereft: “How long, O God? Will you forget me forever?”

It ends on a high note: “I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me.”

Dear God, Today I have some problems which I have brought before you. Please tell me how I should deal with them. Please strengthen my pastors: Pastor C and Vicar R, and all the leaders of your church. Please be with all those who are fearful of swine flu, and those who are suffering from it. Please strengthen my countries of England and Australia, and their leaders. Please help my father get home safely. In Jesus’ name, Amen