This is a good lesson for our prayers of petition. A widow besieges an “unjust” judge, trying to forcefully persuade him to vindicate her against an adversary. At last, fearing more of the same, the judge submits. So Jesus says, “Yes! Pray like that!”
Most of us may think of prayer as a lovely pious exercise—maybe before the Blessed Sacrament, a votive candle lit with an offering made. But Jesus says, “Engage! Demand! Don’t let up!” Prompted by such spirit, I guess I have prayed like that in life-and-death emergencies. When you’re in such a state, your prayer is probably not just for some spending money or a good grade on a test.
Jesus is nearing Jerusalem, his own prayer no doubt becoming more and more urgent. Like the widow, Jesus says our prayer must also be for “justice” to secure our rights. God is not embarrassed to submit to creatures, “speedily” (v. 8) no less! So let’s go—forward!
Most holy Apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the Church honors and invokes you universally, as the patron of difficult cases, of things almost despaired of, Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone. Intercede with God for me that He bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations, and sufferings, particularly - (make your request here) - and that I may praise God with you and all the saints forever. I promise, O Blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor granted me by God and to always honor you as my special and powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. Amen
I pray, and I pray. All day a whispered plea. Please, God please, bring my mother back to me. Open her eyes and let her see, that she is here at home with me. Let her recognise these walls, the carpet worn upon the hall. Let her know that I am me, oh please please just help her see. Every day, a pray and pray, don’t let this illness take my mum away…
Pray persistently and claim Gods promises.
Today is the feast day of St Gertrude whose prayer is for the Souls in Purgatory. Eternal Father, I offer Thee the most Precious Blood of Jesus, with all the Masses being said all over the world this day, for the Souls in Purgatory. Amen. Let us daily pray the St. Gertrude prayer and help set the captives free. (From Explanation of the St. Gertrude Prayer)
"We must pray without ceasing, in every occurrence & employment of our lives- that prayer which is rather a habit of lifting up the heart to God as in a constant communication with Him." St. Elizabeth Ann Seton My prayer life certainly has become more frequent & intense in recent years as well as more satisfying. It may have to do with retirement in 2019 since time is not much of a factor anymore. I do feel lost & sad if for some reason I miss even part of my prayer time.
Thank you Miguel, this gives me hope that my daily prayers are not unnecessary. I must admit I have seen more response lately in a positive life around me. Although not without struggles prayer is my strength. Blessings LFF, especially those needing extra hands these days. May God show you an answer soon. May we all spread the love of God through all the world everyday.
P.S. Just read some of yesterday's comments. Jane thank you for posting St.Jude prayer. Love it, will add to my collection. :)
"Engage! Demand! Don't let up!" I rarely do this when I pray. I am the passive person that listens and waits for a response. The article gives me another perspective. Thanks for stimulating my brain cells!
*** Why did Jesus tell the disciples this story? To always pray and never give up in Luke 18:1, “Jesus told His disciples a story. He wanted to show them that they should always pray and not give up!” *** Who did Jesus compare the unfair judge who didn’t have any respect for God with? God Himself in Luke 18:6-7, “The Lord said, “Listen to what the unfair judge says. God’s chosen people cry out to Him day and night. Won’t He make things right for them? Will He keep putting them off?” *** What are the pre-requisites for prayers? Be joyful and be thankful because I belong to Christ Jesus in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus!” ******* What is Jesus looking for in people? Faith in Luke 18:8, “I tell you, God will see that things are made right for them. He will make sure it happens quickly. But when the Son of Man comes, will He find people on earth who have faith?”
Amen
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Lord please hear our prayers and bring your light to all those experiencing natural disasters, as well as those in Haiti, the Middle East, Ukraine, Russia, Darfur, the Sudan, in addition to all those suffering around the world - also for their strength, courage and resilience to continue walking in faith. Send them your light. Father in Heaven, have mercy on us and on the whole world! You sent Your Son, the Prince of Peace, for the salvation of the world. We pray that the Peace of Christ will reign in Haiti, the Middle East, Ukraine, Russia, Darfur and Sudan. Please protect and send aid to those in need and all who are at-risk. We pray for peace and rebuilding– we who are working towards it and for all those who are suffering or in danger from conflicts. We pray for an end to violence and war – we pray for wisdom for all leaders who have a hand in this. Lord God please help those in most need of thy mercy. Amen