Our Scriptures today speak to us about persistence or perseverance. Specifically, about persisting in prayer and in discipleship. Starting with our first reading, we see how Moses persisted in prayer, supported by Aaron and Hur and with God’s help, the Israelites were able to defeat their enemy, the Amalekites. The victory belonged to God. God’s response to Moses prayer was immediate. However, we know that God’s responses to our prayers may not be immediate, but at a time and in a way that we don’t expect. We know that God’s ways are not always our ways. Sometimes the answer is “no”, because God has something better planned for us, as long as we stay open to the presence and action of Him in our lives. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts. (Is55:8-9)
St. Paul tells Timothy…proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient… and in some translations, in season or out of season. St. Paul assures Timothy that God is present…as God has been present in the past. In the same way, God remains present to us through the power of the Holy Spirit, through the sacraments, especially in the Holy Eucharist and Reconciliation.
Today’s gospel begins: Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary. Perhaps we can recall the words of an encouraging parent, especially as a child or teenager: “don’t give up”. We accomplish many goals throughout the course of our lives, often persevering through difficulties and challenges. The goal towards eternal life is a lifelong journey, with faithfulness to all the practices of our faith, including prayer, Mass, Confession, living a “moral” life, sharing our time, talent and treasure etc. We pray as in today’s Psalm: My help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
God bless us all always!
Deacon Mike