Having instant access to whatever we can think of to fulfill our desires and needs is definitely a huge advantage of living in the 21st century. However, this seemingly amazing characteristic of today’s world has left us busy and impatient. We are so used to having instant results, that when things do not come as easily as they should, we give in to despair and anxiety. But today, the word of God reminds us of the importance of striving and persevering, specially in our prayer.

In today’s first reading, we see Moses on top of the mountain with his arms outstretched, while his people fight the Amalekites. Amazingly this act seems to be the determining factor in the Israelites’ success in the bat- tle, for when Moses had his hands raised, the Israelites were wining and when his hands were resting the tables turned.

We believe that Moses was not merely holding his hands high but praying fervently and interceding on behalf of his people. This was such a tiring act and ultimately Aaron and Hur had to support Moses to carry on. And the result was victory for the Israelites.

This is our calling during these times of trouble: to stand in the gap between heaven and earth, to draw down God’s graces upon the needs of many through our tireless intercession. We are not expected to do it all on our own but join hands with the many faithful, for this is what pleases our Father.

As we listen to the Lord Jesus’ words in the Gospel Proclamation, we are assured of the power of unceasing prayer. In contrast to the loving and faithful God that we ourselves cry out to, the judge in today’s parable is a man ‘who neither feared God nor respected any human being.’ However, he gave into the widow’s pleas simply because she had the courage and perseverance to appeal to that corrupt judge over and again, without giving up, until justice was served.

Would our merciful Father, turn away from us when we cry out to him day in and day out? Do we dare to present our cause to him often enough or do we give up so easily after the first few attempts?
We are challenged today to keep our hopes alive and trust in God in the midst of disappointment and struggle. Our God never delights in our miseries but awaits eagerly to fill us with good things. So, what is it that stopped his graces from flowing into our lives? Is it our lack of perseverance? Are we really pleading for a just cause?

Prayer: Abba Father, we lift our eyes towards you for our help comes from you alone. Amen.