Scripture:
Wisdom 18:14-16; 19:6-9
Luke 18:1-8
Reflection:
The persistent widow…the lowliest of the lowly…certainly one with no voice, no visibility, and no status. And yet, with persistence, with determination, with self-belief she can get justice from an unjust judge!
When we pray, do we have that same trust, faith and perseverance? When our prayers aren’t immediately answered in the way we want or expect, do we give up, throw in the towel or get tired and give in to the moments of fatigue and frustration – or – are we able to preserve our faith in our just God and trust him even when we are not sure of his presence?
Kathleen Norris describes prayer as “not so much asking for what we think we need, but trusting that God can change us in ways that are unimaginable”. Pope Frances challenged Christians to do whatever it takes to build God’s kingdom. It occurs to me that in order to live into either, we need to ‘pray unceasingly.’ To share with God what we think we need, and then to listen – listen for his wisdom and grace to do whatever it takes. Can we allow him to change our mind or heart so that we will be equipped to do what we can do to build his kingdom? Can we be like the widow?
Faith Offman is the Associate Director of Ministry at St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat and Conference Center in Detroit, Michigan.