Pray Without Ceasing

Gospel Reflection 10/6/2022

“And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find;
knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives;
and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Luke 9-10)

Today's Gospel reminds us to be persistent in our prayer life. Jesus' parable focuses on the persistent friend who asks his neighbor for bread. Jesus writes, "I tell you, if he does not get up to give him the loaves because of their friendship, he will get up to give him whatever he needs because of his persistence" (Luke 11:8). The friend, as we read in the parable did not give up until he got what he needed. I believe the virtue, or at least one of the main virtues we can grasp from this reading, would be that of "fortitude." 

The Catechism writes, “Fortitude or courage is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome obstacles in the moral life. The virtue of fortitude enables one to conquer fear, even fear of death, and to face trials and persecutions. It disposes one even to renounce and sacrifice his life in defense of a just cause. 'The Lord is my strength and my song.' Jesus said, 'In the world you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world”(CCC 1808). 

There are many challenges throughout our lives, and when we are called to really live out the Christian life, we understand the challenges that come along with it. Maybe you need to follow up on that resume you submitted or finish a long overdue task? Perhaps you are considering a consecrated life in the Church but have had some roadblocks or distractions? Whatever might get in your way, I hope this reflection will encourage and motivate you to keep praying and trusting in the Lord. Another great example in the area of persistence is Saint Therese de Lisieux. St Therese was determined to become a cloistered nun, but her young age was an obstacle. St. Therese was able, at the young age of 15, to enter the Carmel at Lisieux through much prayer and fortitude. St. Thérèse of Lisieux said, "prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy."

Today while in your prayer time, I encourage you to not give up and ask the Lord for the Grace to persevere. Always try to keep a joyful heart and pray without ceasing.

“Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thess 5:16-18)