GOD IS UNLIKE...
The
Apostle Paul writes, “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). In
another letter he also writes, “In all circumstances pray” (Ephesians
6:18). These words of his could have been inspired by the very teaching
of Jesus about the need for perseverance in prayer. But lest we
misunderstand Jesus’ parable on prayer that we read today, it is not one
of similarity but of contrast. God is so unlike the corrupt judge
featured in the parable.
First,
the description of the judge as one who “neither feared God nor felt
shame before men” and as one who is “unjust” is, of course, not
applicable to God who is truth, justice and holiness. The story of
Creation in Genesis 1 proclaims God as one who is good and whose acts
result in nothing but goodness. In fact, the Apostle Paul proclaims that
in God, “everything works for good for those who love him” (Romans
8:28).
Second,
the point of the story that implies that the judge rendered favorable
judgment for the widow due to the latter’s insistence cannot be
overextended to God’s way of answering our prayers. God’s goodness and
initiative are more than what we could ever imagine. God anticipates our
needs. Jesus preached, “Your Father knows what you need before you ask
him” (Matthew 6:8). Jesus went on to illustrate how the Heavenly Father
provided for birds who never sowed nor reaped, for wild flowers whose
splendor and lifespan were so short.
Therefore,
our perseverance in prayer is not because God is hard to convince. Our
perseverance in prayer is brought about by our confidence in God’s love
and care for all of us. Fr. Domie Guzman, SSP
REFLECTION QUESTIONS: What images about God come to you in your prayer moments? What gives you the boldness and perseverance in prayer?
Jesus, give me the confidence to ask much in Your name.
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