1 1-3 Jesus told them a story showing that it was necessary for them to pray consistently and never quit. He said, “There was once a judge in some city who never gave God a thought and cared nothing for people. A widow in that city kept after him: ‘My rights are being violated. Protect me!’
4-5 “He never gave her the time of day. But after this went on and on he said to himself, ‘I care nothing what God thinks, even less what people think. But because this widow won’t quit badgering me, I’d better do something and see that she gets justice—otherwise I’m going to end up beaten black-and-blue by her pounding.’”
6-8 Then the Master said, “Do you hear what that judge, corrupt as he is, is saying? So what makes you think God won’t step in and work justice for his chosen people, who continue to cry out for help? Won’t he stick up for them? I assure you, he will. He will not drag his feet. But how much of that kind of persistent faith will the Son of Man find on the earth when he returns?”
Jesus encourages his disciples to pray consistently and persistently for seeking for the justice of God, using a parable that a corrupted judge would answer the prayer of a widow who prayed consistently for vindication. Prayer is the most basic spiritual discipline required of a disciple of Jesus. The world is declining in terms of justice and compassion. We disciples are facing trials and temptations in our lives. Injustice, sins, sufferings, and human's weaknesses seem persist and continue around us. Disciples are also tempted to lose our confidence in prayer. However, Jesus knew our little faith beforehand, and encourages us not to lose our faith in prayer because our God is just and righteous, and with compassion toward His people. He will answer our prayers in His way and in the best timing for us.
My dear friend Jesus, draw me closer to the love of my heavenly Father as I consistently pray for the manifestation of God's kingdom in people around me. We want to see Your power and presence to be shown among us. People needs Your salvation and deliverance from the power of this world. My dear Lord Jesus, carry me through as I follow Your way in ministering and preaching Your Kingdom on earth in the days ahead of me.
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