P.R.A.Y. (Pray, Rest, And Yield )

   

  Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

16 October 2022 

 

First Reading: Ex 17:8-13

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 121:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8

Second Reading: 2 Tm 3:14-4:2

Gospel: Lk 18:1-8

 

Reflection

By: Theresa Ballo-Manio

 

There may be times where we feel tired in praying especially when our intentions are not happening. There may be times where we doubt ourselves if we are actually asking God for something with the purest intentions. When we fall short of God's commandments, we sometimes feel unworthy of God's grace and mercy. Nevertheless, the Gospel this Sunday reminds us what real prayer is and how God manifests in our lives.

Praying is communication. It is a two-way process. Just like in any relationship we have, we get tired when we do all the talking. We failed to understand because we resisted listening attentively. It is easier for us to assume rarher than ask. Jesus is asking us to be patient, "pray always and do not lose heart". For a long time, the judge was unwilling, but eventually he gave in to the persistent widow. Praying develops hopes and creates joy in waiting. That resting time may enable us to ponder what it is that we truly desire or make us appreciate and value our answered prayer even more when it comes.

The widow never gave up until the judge responded to her. Our prayers are heard and some of our petitions will be answered in the way that is best for us. It may not exactly be how we wanted it but always in the most loving way that fits our needs. In a special way, I am writing this reflection with the thought of all my acquaintances and friends suffering and battling with mental health issues, those with anxieties, depression, and living in the dark pit of emptiness. They are like the present day widow in Jesus' time. Persistently, they would want to get the ill-feeling so hard, often misunderstood, judgments placed on their shoulders, and treated unkindly. The widow's persistence paved the way for justice to happen. Years back, I had post-traumatic stress disorder and when it is triggered, the trauma creeps in and consumes the best for me. My faith and fear of the Lord keeps me alive. Believe me, it is never easy yet it brings more compassion and empathy in me to treat each person nicely, to have allowances for mistakes, and to cling on to God through prayers. Faith in God may not always be the answer to people with mental health issues yet the courage to ask fo help, believe it or not, is always the first step to recovery. Like the persistent widow, may we always believe that there is help available, express your need to someone you trust, and remain faithful for no matter how difficult it may seem, there is always a loving God who keeps His promises and remains faithful to us.

Prayer

Dear Lord, teach us  to trust in You and not lose hope when we call on You in times of need and sorrow. Keep us faithful in prayer, Oh Lord, for Your mercy and generosity are always enough. Give us patience to wait as You unfold Your best plans to each one of us. Amen.