Lectionary: 147
Read the Gospel: Luke 18:1-8
Gospel Summary
Like a relentless child, the widow in Jesus’ parable wouldn’t give up. She continually begged the judge for justice against her opponents. Not because the judge wanted to see justice done, but because he grew tired of the woman’s pleading, he granted her request. The point Jesus wanted to make with this story is how much our loving God will answer our prayers if we persist in our asking.
Reflection for Families
What happens when our children pester us long enough for something? If it’s not life threatening and they’ve bugged us long enough, we usually find a way of giving in without losing face. We know just how the judge in Luke’s Gospel felt! Let the story of the persistent widow strengthen your prayers. Even if they are not answered in just the way we ask, God hears our prayers and cares for us.
Bringing the Gospel into Your Family
Be faithful praying with your children. Teach them simple prayers for starting their day, grace before meals, and prayers at bedtime. Say prayers every day. For a collection of rituals, blessings, prayers, and traditions meant to encourage and inspire Catholic families to keep prayer at the heart of their home, check out Our Family Prays.
Discussion Starters
- God answered my prayer in a way that totally surprised me when . . .
- The best part of praying with my family is . . .
- I have never given up asking for . . .
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