PERSISTENCE PAYS OFF
Jesus tells a story that is all too true. A
defenseless widow is taken advantage of and is refused her rights. Through
sheer persistence she wears down a judge who, by the way, doesn't respect
anyone. She speaks out until he gives her the justice she deserves. Persistence
pays off, and that's especially true for those who trust in God.
Jesus illustrates how our heavenly Father, and
our loving Judge, is much quicker to bring us His justice, blessing, and help
when we need it. But we can easily lose heart and forget to ask God for His
grace and assistance. Jesus Christ told this story to give fresh hope and confidence.
In this present life we can expect trials and adversity, but we are not without
hope in our heavenly Father.
In our Church and throughout our nation, we
can recall the multitude of brace women who, like the widow in today's Gospel,
have stood up, refused to be silent, and worked long and hard to bring about
changes that recognized the equality of women and men. Jesus ends His parable
with a challenging question for us: "But when the Son of Man comes, will
He find faith on earth" (Lk 18:8)?
In the Responsorial Psalm we acclaim,
"Remember the marvels the Lord had done" (Ps 105:5a)! As God's
children we are called to work together and be persistent!