Luke 18

Persistence in Prayer: A Call to Examine Our Faith

As we reflect on the words of Jesus in Luke 18, we are reminded of the challenge and invitation to persist in prayer. But what does it really mean to be persistent in our prayers? Is it about setting a timeline—praying once, twice, or even for years? Or is it about a deeper, ongoing conversation with God, where our prayers become a part of our daily life, regardless of immediate answers?

In Luke 18, Jesus tells the parable of the persistent widow, encouraging us to keep asking, seeking, and knocking. It’s a challenging call—one that requires us to question how much faith we truly have. Are we faithful enough to continue praying, even when the answer doesn’t come right away? Are we the kind of people who trust God with our prayers, knowing that His timing is perfect?

I find myself reflecting on how easy it is to approach God with a transactional mindset—like placing an Amazon Prime order, expecting immediate delivery. But God’s response doesn’t always work on our timeline. The widow in the parable didn't give up, and the judge eventually granted her request. But Jesus ends the parable with a vital question: "When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?" It’s a question for us to ponder—what kind of faith do we have? A faith that perseveres in prayer? A faith that trusts God’s answers, even when they don’t come in our preferred form or timing?

Humility and the Pharisee's Pride

Another powerful part of Luke 18 is the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. Here, Jesus challenges us to examine our hearts when it comes to humility and self-righteousness. The Pharisee, proud of his own good deeds, compares himself to others—specifically the tax collector—and thanks God that he is not like him. But Jesus flips the script, telling us that it is the tax collector, humbly beating his chest and asking for mercy, who is justified before God.

This parable invites us to reflect on where we place our confidence. Do we, like the Pharisee, rely on our own works and righteousness? Or do we humbly acknowledge that it’s only through God’s grace that we are made righteous? We must be careful not to fall into the trap of self-righteousness, believing that our efforts are what make us worthy of God's love and favor.

The world around us often encourages comparison, pointing fingers at others while elevating our own successes. But the gospel calls us to look inward, to examine ourselves, and to remember that pride comes before a fall. Humility before God leads to true exaltation.

The Value of Children: A Humble Faith

In the next part of the passage, Jesus reminds us of the importance of children in the Kingdom of God. People were bringing babies to Jesus for His blessing, but the disciples rebuked them. Jesus, however, welcomed the children and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these."

In a world that often overlooks the simplicity and vulnerability of children, Jesus calls us to value them as models of humility and meekness. Children approach life with a pure faith—unpretentious, trusting, and open to receiving. This is the kind of faith Jesus desires in us.

As we reflect on our own faith journey, we are challenged to consider how we approach God. Do we come with the same humility and openness as a child? Or do we, like the Pharisee, bring our self-reliance and pride into our relationship with Him?

Conclusion: Redirecting Our Longings to God

So, as we examine our faith, we are encouraged to redirect our longings and desires to God. Whether it's for a loved one, a personal dream, or a long-held prayer request, we are invited to bring it before God continually, trusting that He hears us. Persistence in prayer is not about demanding answers, but about faithfully yielding our desires to God’s will, knowing that He can handle it and trusting in His perfect timing.

As we reflect on these truths from Luke 18, we are reminded of the importance of persistence, humility, and childlike faith. Let’s continue to pray with perseverance, examine our hearts, and approach God with humility, trusting that He will answer in ways that are far greater than we could ever imagine.