Pray, Pray, Pray

Scripture:  And he told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. Luke 18:1

Reflection:  If we were to watch an interesting film or movie then we could be sitting for long and yet not feel bored. We could be sitting for hours together and watch a sporting event and yet carry on with more.  And if it is a friend or a beloved one then we would not mind even a lifetime of togetherness.

But when it comes to spending time with our most beloved God in prayer we are all lost in the dark cloud of boredom and pain, uneasiness, confusion, indifference and aloofness.  We should know that God is much more interesting and a pleasure to be with than any human being or an interesting event.  All that is required of us is to know him who is willing to reveal loving self to us. It is only that initial phase or obstacle of resistance to relate to him, which needs to be overcome.

Once this obstacle resistance due to anxiety, uneasiness and guilt is dealt with through true repentance and genuine gratitude and praise then we are into it.  Persistence, is the key and a sure hope, is a help in persisting with our relationship with God who meets us more than half way with is grace. 

Prayer:  Lord as I seek to come into your presence, let me not lose heart but persevere with all my strength.

DD = Dedicated Discipleship:  Come grow in the Lord with us

Persistent Prayer

Scripture: And he said to them, "Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, 'Friend, lend me three loaves; 6 for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him'; 7 and he will answer from within, 'Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything'? 8 I tell you, though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him whatever he needs. Lk. 11:5-9

Reflection: The parable is an apt description of a Christian and why one should ask persistently. 

Someone may say but God should answer our prayers even if asked only once.  

The problem with our praying is that we ask in the darkness (midnight) of our sinfulness as in the parable. May be the darkness is deliberate on our part or not self imposed or could be inherited but nevertheless it is with such miserable dark faith we ask of God.  Whatever the situation, Jesus asks of us to ask God persistently and not to lose heart. Yes, our own miserable situation can make us lose heart, do not give up or don’t switch sides and seek other short cut means as in New age philosophies, therapies and methodologies.

Prayer:  Help me Lord never to lose heart or to give up on you as my savior and Lord.

DD = Dedicated Discipleship:  Come grow in the Lord with us