Persistence is one of the hallmarks of Christian prayer.
Abraham is persistent in interceding with God on behalf of the town of Sodom. Even so, Sodom was destroyed because not even 10 righteous men could be found. Were Abraham’s efforts in vain? Surely God knew the number of good people in the doomed city so what was the point of Abraham’s persistence?
Jesus picks up the same message in His parable of the midnight friend. Where friendship may fail, persistence is rewarded.
God has entered into a covenant with His children. He does not desire to act as a tyrant. When we are persistent in prayer our desires become more in keeping with what God wants for us. This gives God more freedom to act in our lives. Out of love for us He is willing to allow Himself to be shaped by our prayers.
Persistence in seeking God, in asking, in knocking at the door is necessary for God to open the door as a Father to His children. God is ready to “give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him.”
But God does not give this gift indiscriminately to those who seek Him half-heartedly. Through our persistence we prove our hunger for His blessings. We show that we genuinely long for and desire His love.
Through our persistence in prayer, by showing God how much we desire to be with Him, we gain confidence that He will answer every petition that is in accord with His will.
Pax Vobiscum
17th Sunday in Ordinary Time