We are a joyful community of disciples proclaiming the Good News and inviting all people to encounter the love and mercy of Jesus Christ.
"Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”
(Luke 18:7–8)
Living Prayerfully
I recently visited a priest within our diocese who encouraged me to start keeping a prayer journal or simply making a list of my daily intentions. He shared two reasons why I should begin this daily practice: First, by recording my intentions and continuing to pray for them until the Lord answers, I can look back and see God’s faithfulness in my life. Second, and the point that connects to todays Gospel, keeping a record of our prayers helps us remain persistent.
In today’s Gospel, we are reminded that our definition of swift justice is not always the same as the Lord’s. The parable of the persistent widow demonstrates that effective prayer requires tenacity and faithfulness. A true disciple must learn that prayer is rooted in an absolute trust and faith in God. This can be difficult because we don't always receive immediate answers when we pray. Some prayers are answered quickly, others take months, and some take years. We can count on the Lord to answer our prayers when, where, and how He chooses. God calls us to keep asking, seeking, knocking, and praying until the answers come (Matthew 7:7–8).
In today’s Gospel, we are reminded that our definition of swift justice is not always the same as the Lord’s. The parable of the persistent widow demonstrates that effective prayer requires tenacity and faithfulness. A true disciple must learn that prayer is rooted in an absolute trust and faith in God. This can be difficult because we don't always receive immediate answers when we pray. Some prayers are answered quickly, others take months, and some take years. We can count on the Lord to answer our prayers when, where, and how He chooses. God calls us to keep asking, seeking, knocking, and praying until the answers come (Matthew 7:7–8).
How can I grow in persistence with my prayer life?
Dear Lord, help me become a better disciples of Christ through persistent prayer. Amen.
Reflection by:
Allison Munden is the Director of Diocesan Communications and Information for the Diocese of Saint Petersburg. Prior to her role at the Diocese, she was the Director of Communications at Tampa Catholic High School.