1 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to teach them that they should always pray and never become discouraged. 2 “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected people. 3 And there was a widow in that same town who kept coming to him and pleading for her rights, saying, ‘Help me against my opponent!’ 4 For a long time the judge refused to act, but at last he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or respect people, 5 yet because of all the trouble this widow is giving me, I will see to it that she gets her rights. If I don’t, she will keep on coming and finally wear me out!’ ” 6 And the Lord continued, “Listen to what that corrupt judge said. 7 Now, will God not judge in favour of his own people who cry to him day and night for help? Will he be slow to help them? 8 I tell you, he will judge in their favour and do it quickly. But will the Son of Man find faith on earth when he comes?”
Jesus is a master at making complex ideas clear. Here he uses a simple story to explain the importance of perseverance, which he links to prayer.
The widow who appeals to the judge is seeking justice. She simply wants him to uphold her rights so her opponent complies with the law. But for some reason the judge keeps refusing to hear her case.
Eventually the judge gives in, not because it is the right thing to do, but because he realises this woman just won’t give up. He can’t face the thought of her coming to him time after time so he concedes and judges in her favour.
Jesus then contrasts the behaviour of the corrupt judge with God. The differences are so great it is like comparing black and white. Jesus assures us that God will judge in favour of his people and he will do it swiftly. Why? Because God is good and just.
So we needn’t fear asking for God’s help because he will surely answer (first half of verse 8).
In the second half of verse 8, Jesus asks another question: “But will the Son of Man find faith on earth when he comes?” What does this have to do with persistence in prayer? Perhaps Jesus is saying that persevering prayer is sustained by faith. If you believe that God loves you then you don’t stop praying, even if God does not answer immediately. More importantly, Jesus implies that his return may be longer than some expect. So there is a link with persistence and endurance, especially for the faithful who pray.
Persistent prayer encourages a faithful hope and that is where Jesus started his parable. It links to the verses in Luke 21:34-36 about remaining watchful in prayer, because no one knows the time when Jesus will return. And this was just as true for the disciples as it is for us today.
MEDITATIO
Think of times when you have had to wait a long time for God’s answer to your prayers. What encouraged you to keep persevering and not give up?
Why do you think God doesn’t always answer our prayers immediately or sometimes says “No”?
Consider the parallel between this passage and Mt 7:7-11, which also teaches about persistence in prayer: “Bad as you are, you know how to give good things to your children. How much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him!”
ORATIO
Psalm 121:2 reminds us that “My help will come from the Lord who made heaven and earth.”
Why not bring the things that concern you to God again in prayer today? Ask for his help not to give up as you wait to see his response. Give thanks that the all-powerful creator of the universe will not fail us.
CONTEMPLATIO
Consider Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 3:14 – 4:2, particularly verses 16-17 below. What do they mean to you?
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults and giving instruction for right living, so that the person who serves God may be fully qualified and equipped to do every kind of good deed.”
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