This week in 1 Samuel 7 we see Israel's response to the return of the ark- a response of lament, repentance and victory. However, none of these come about on their own or by the wisdom and strength of the people themselves. Instead, it is only by the presence of the Lord, the preaching of his word and prayer that the people of God return to him with all their heart. With the laying of the Ebenezer stone Samuel helps God's people to see 'til now the Lord has helped us.' We too can look back and remember God's faithfulness to us in the past and therefore entrust ourselves to him and to his 'monumental mercy' to us in Christ in the days to come. -Just as the people of Israel pleaded with Samuel, may we 'not cease to cry out to the Lord our God' - that he might save us and sustain us as we turn to him who 'ever lives to intercede for us.'