Luke 18:8 I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?"
Before Christmas or birthdays, children ask for gifts, and they might even provide a list. The gift at the top might be the one most important and the child might constantly express how much they want that gift, maybe petitioning to the parents at every available opportunity. Usually by the time the big day comes and the receive their gift, it brings them much joy. But if the gift is not received or given, they probably feel disappointed or sad.
Sunday's gospel from Luke is the parable of the Widow and the Unjust Judge. The widow persistently appealed to the judge to have a ruling from an adversary. The widow nagged at the judge until finally he gave in and made a ruling. Jesus began the teaching by stating that this lesson was about persistent prayer. He also noted that the judge was unjust, and that he did not fear God or man. We don't know why he was unjust°maybe he wanted a bribe from someone to make a ruling. Widows were also special and were supposed to be cared for by society. The judge was pressed to make a ruling in her favor by societal norms. Jesus concludes by reminding us to pay attention to what the dishonest judge says. If a dishonest judge rules for someone calling out day and night, wouldn't a loving and just God?
The lesson for us is that Jesus will return, as he promised. Will he find us praying constantly as he instructed his people to do? In our daily prayers, do we find every opportunity to give God praise and thanksgiving for all our gifts, including our very lives? Do we give Jesus our struggles, our burdens, our daily challenges that wear us down? Jesus tells us to give our burdens to him and let God control every aspect of our lives. Do we have the courage to do that? Jesus reminds us that when he returns, we should be a people of prayer and love. Find time in your day to pray at work, at home and with your family. Your life will be better for it.
