29th Sunday Ordinary Time, October 16, 2022

Fr. Rick’s Gospel Reflection for 29th Sunday Ordinary Time, October 16, 2022
Luke 18:1-8 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101622.cfm
Please open your Scriptures and read these verses prayerfully.

Repent, then ask.

Today’s Gospel reading reminds me of my golf game. I always want to beat my best score, no matter how good I shot last time out. It is easy to become weary when it doesn’t happen. But that doesn’t last too long, thank the Lord. There is always another day.

The widow in the Gospel didn’t become weary either. On the contrary, she pesters the judge to grant her justice against her adversary. But, of course, it didn’t say what they did to the widow. But we know widows were dirt-poor beggars because there wasn’t a welfare system.

I suspect the woman’s adversary was wealthy, and the judge wanted to remain on their good side. That may have been what made the judge unjust. But think of this: the lady’s persistence and the judge’s refusal made her more determined to seek justice.

We are like the widow who became more determined each time the judge said “No.” There are some prayers God takes a long time to answer. He is as concerned about us as the person we petition Him to help.

Before we ask God for something in prayer, come into His Presence and repent from all sin. Feel your sorrow and ask God for mercy. It always helps me realize how poor I am and how gracious God is to us. It also removes any evil in our hearts that keep God from working through us.

Pray without becoming weary – God is waiting for us to become poor; that is, know how much we can do nothing without Him.

The Gospel Challenge:
Pray with the psalmist, “A humble and contrite Oh God, you will not spurn” (Psalm 51:17.) Before you ask God to do something, pray for a humble and contrite heart. Then, watch how quickly God answers your prayer beyond your wildest dream.

IGNITE THE FIRE.

God bless you, my friends.
Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.

www.bscchurch.com

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