Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 147
Lectionary: 147
In those days, Amalek came and waged war against Israel.
Moses, therefore, said to Joshua,
"Pick out certain men,
and tomorrow go out and engage Amalek in battle.
I will be standing on top of the hill
with the staff of God in my hand."
So Joshua did as Moses told him:
he engaged Amalek in battle
after Moses had climbed to the top of the hill with Aaron and Hur.
As long as Moses kept his hands raised up,
Israel had the better of the fight,
but when he let his hands rest,
Amalek had the better of the fight.
Moses'hands, however, grew tired;
so they put a rock in place for him to sit on.
Meanwhile Aaron and Hur supported his hands,
one on one side and one on the other,
so that his hands remained steady till sunset.
And Joshua mowed down Amalek and his people
with the edge of the sword.
Moses, therefore, said to Joshua,
"Pick out certain men,
and tomorrow go out and engage Amalek in battle.
I will be standing on top of the hill
with the staff of God in my hand."
So Joshua did as Moses told him:
he engaged Amalek in battle
after Moses had climbed to the top of the hill with Aaron and Hur.
As long as Moses kept his hands raised up,
Israel had the better of the fight,
but when he let his hands rest,
Amalek had the better of the fight.
Moses'hands, however, grew tired;
so they put a rock in place for him to sit on.
Meanwhile Aaron and Hur supported his hands,
one on one side and one on the other,
so that his hands remained steady till sunset.
And Joshua mowed down Amalek and his people
with the edge of the sword.
Responsorial
PsalmPS 121:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
R.(cf. 2) Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
I lift up my eyes toward the mountains;
whence shall help come to me?
My help is from the LORD,
who made heaven and earth.
R. Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
May he not suffer your foot to slip;
may he slumber not who guards you:
indeed he neither slumbers nor sleeps,
the guardian of Israel.
R. Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
The LORD is your guardian; the LORD is your shade;
he is beside you at your right hand.
The sun shall not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
R. Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
The LORD will guard you from all evil;
he will guard your life.
The LORD will guard your coming and your going,
both now and forever.
R. Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
I lift up my eyes toward the mountains;
whence shall help come to me?
My help is from the LORD,
who made heaven and earth.
R. Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
May he not suffer your foot to slip;
may he slumber not who guards you:
indeed he neither slumbers nor sleeps,
the guardian of Israel.
R. Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
The LORD is your guardian; the LORD is your shade;
he is beside you at your right hand.
The sun shall not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
R. Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
The LORD will guard you from all evil;
he will guard your life.
The LORD will guard your coming and your going,
both now and forever.
R. Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
Reading 22 TM 3:14-4:2
Beloved:
Remain faithful to what you have learned and believed,
because you know from whom you learned it,
and that from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures,
which are capable of giving you wisdom for salvation
through faith in Christ Jesus.
All Scripture is inspired by God
and is useful for teaching, for refutation, for correction,
and for training in righteousness,
so that one who belongs to God may be competent,
equipped for every good work.
I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus,
who will judge the living and the dead,
and by his appearing and his kingly power:
proclaim the word;
be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient;
convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.
Remain faithful to what you have learned and believed,
because you know from whom you learned it,
and that from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures,
which are capable of giving you wisdom for salvation
through faith in Christ Jesus.
All Scripture is inspired by God
and is useful for teaching, for refutation, for correction,
and for training in righteousness,
so that one who belongs to God may be competent,
equipped for every good work.
I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus,
who will judge the living and the dead,
and by his appearing and his kingly power:
proclaim the word;
be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient;
convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.
AlleluiaHEB 4:12
R. Alleluia,
alleluia.
The word of God is living and effective,
discerning reflections and thoughts of the heart.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
The word of God is living and effective,
discerning reflections and thoughts of the heart.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GospelLK 18:1-8
Jesus told his disciples a parable
about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary.
He said, "There was a judge in a certain town
who neither feared God nor respected any human being.
And a widow in that town used to come to him and say,
'Render a just decision for me against my adversary.'
For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought,
'While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human being,
because this widow keeps bothering me
I shall deliver a just decision for her
lest she finally come and strike me.'"
The Lord said, "Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says.
Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones
who call out to him day and night?
Will he be slow to answer them?
I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily.
But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?"
about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary.
He said, "There was a judge in a certain town
who neither feared God nor respected any human being.
And a widow in that town used to come to him and say,
'Render a just decision for me against my adversary.'
For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought,
'While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human being,
because this widow keeps bothering me
I shall deliver a just decision for her
lest she finally come and strike me.'"
The Lord said, "Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says.
Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones
who call out to him day and night?
Will he be slow to answer them?
I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily.
But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?"
Meditation:
"Always
pray and do not lose heart"
What
can a shameless and unjust judge pitted against a crusty and pestering woman
teach us about justice and vindication (to restore what is right and just) in
the kingdom of God? Jesus tells a story that is all too true - a defenseless
widow is taken advantaged of and refused her rights. Through sheer persistence
she wears down an unscrupulous judge until he gives her justice. Persistence
pays off, and that's especially true for those who trust in God. Jesus
illustrates how God as our Judge and Vindicator is much quicker to come to our
defense and to bring us his justice, blessing, and help when we need it. But we
can easily lose heart and forget to ask our heavenly Father for his grace and
help.
Faith-filled
persistence reaps the fruit of justice and grace
Jesus told the parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge (Luke 18:1-8) to give his disciples fresh hope and confidence in God's unfailing care and favor towards us (grace). In this present life we can expect trials and adversity, but we are not without hope in God. The Day of the Last Judgment will reveal that God's justice triumphs over all the injustices perpetrated by a fallen world of sinful people and that God's love is stronger than death (Song of Songs 8:6). Those who put their faith in God and entrust their lives to him can look forward with hope and confident assurance. They will receive their reward - if not fully in this present life then surely and completely in the age to come in God's kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy (Romans 14:17).
Jesus told the parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge (Luke 18:1-8) to give his disciples fresh hope and confidence in God's unfailing care and favor towards us (grace). In this present life we can expect trials and adversity, but we are not without hope in God. The Day of the Last Judgment will reveal that God's justice triumphs over all the injustices perpetrated by a fallen world of sinful people and that God's love is stronger than death (Song of Songs 8:6). Those who put their faith in God and entrust their lives to him can look forward with hope and confident assurance. They will receive their reward - if not fully in this present life then surely and completely in the age to come in God's kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy (Romans 14:17).
Jesus
ends his parable with a probing question for us. Will you and I have faith -
the kind of faith that doesn't give up or lose hope in God - but perseveres to
the end of our lives - and to the end of this present age when the Lord Jesus
will return in glory as Ruler and Judge of All? Faith is an entirely free gift
that God makes to us. We could not believe, trust, and persevere with hope if
God did not first draw us to himself and reveal to us his merciful love and
care. If we want to grow and persevere in faith until the end of our days, then
we must nourish our faith with the word of God and ask the Lord to increase it (Luke
17:5). When trials and setbacks disappoint you, where do you place your hope
and confidence? Do you pray with expectant faith and confident hope in God's
merciful care and provision for you?
"Lord
Jesus, increase my faith and make it strong that I may never doubt your word
and promise to be with me always. In every situation I face - whether trials,
setbacks, or loss - may I always find strength in your unfailing love and find
joy and contentment in having you alone as the treasure of my heart."
Daily
Quote from the early church fathers: Persistent prayer transforms iniquity
and wickedness into mercy, by Ephrem the Syrian (306-373 AD)
"How
was that unjust judge immoral and wicked? How was the upright judge gracious
and just? The first in his iniquity was not willing to vindicate the widow, and
in his wickedness, he was not willing to put her mind at rest. The justice of
God knows how to vindicate, and his grace discerns how to give life. The
iniquity of this wicked judge was contrary to the justice of God, and the
wickedness of this rebel was in opposition to the grace of the gentle One. His
wickedness therefore was stubbornness, for it dared to go against the fear of
God. His boldness was stubborn, for it refused the lowly person."
"These
two were stubborn, but persistent prayer was even more stubborn. The
persistence of the widow humiliated both the iniquity that was rebelling
against God and the boldness that was behaving arrogantly towards human beings.
She subjected them to her will, so that they might provide her with a
vindication over her adversary. Persistence transformed these two bitter
branches, and they bore sweet fruit that was against their nature. The iniquity
of the judge brought about a righteous judgment and a just retribution for the
falsely accused woman. His wickedness gave peace to the afflicted one, although
iniquity does not know how to judge, and wickedness does not know how to give
refreshment. Persistence forced these two evil and bitter branches to give good
fruit against their nature. If we persist in prayer, we should be even more
able to prevail on the grace and justice of God to give us fruit that agrees
with their nature. Let justice vindicate us, and let grace refresh us.
Accordingly, the fruit of justice is the just reward of the oppressed, while
the giving of refreshment to the afflicted is the fruit of grace." (excerpt
from COMMENTARY ON TATIAN’S DIATESSARON 16.16.6)
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Cycle C
Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended
that the reader look up and read that passage.
1st Reading - Exodus 17:8-13
The Book of Exodus (the word “exodus” means “departure”) is the second book in
the five books of the Law (the Torah). This book tells of the oppression of the Israelites in
Egypt, the birth and education of Moses and his flight into the land of Midian, his encounter
with God on Mount Sinai (Horeb) (the burning bush), Moses’ return to Egypt and pleadings
with Pharaoh, the plagues of Egypt, the institution of the Passover, the passing through the
Red Sea, the giving of the ten commandments at Mt. Sinai, the golden calf, and the 40 years
of wandering in the desert.
The time between the crossing through the Red Sea and the arrival of the Israelites
at Mount Sinai was three months. It was during this three month period that the people
complained that they were thirsty. God commanded Moses to speak to a rock (he struck it
with his staff) and water flowed from it for the people to drink. Jewish oral tradition must
have held that this rock followed the Jews in their 40-year wandering because no such
event is mentioned in the Old Testament. 1st Corinthians 10:4 however does record this
“following rock”. How different this epistle might have been if Saint Paul had said “If it isn’t
written in Scripture I won’t believe it.”
Our reading today occurs immediately after the rock story and explains why we
(priests and charismatics at least) pray with arms outstretched.
8 [In those days] [ ], Amalek came
Amalek is not a person, but a nomadic tribe listed in the genealogy of Esau (Genesis 36:12).
Just as Jacob fought with Esau, so their descendants are destined to fight. The Amalekites
controlled the caravan routes between Egypt and Arabia.
and waged war against Israel.
This is the first military activity of the newly freed Hebrews.
9 Moses, therefore, said to Joshua,
This is the first mention of Joshua in sacred Scripture. It is Joshua who is later designated to
lead the Israelites into the promised land.
“Pick out certain men, and tomorrow go out and engage Amalek in battle. I will be
standing on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hand.”
This requires faith (and acting on it) on the part of Joshua. Joshua will be fighting while
Moses looks on.
10 So Joshua did as Moses told him: he engaged Amalek in battle after Moses had
climbed to the top of the hill with Aaron
Moses’ brother – later to become High Priest
and Hur.
A contemporary of Moses who later governs the Israelites with Aaron when Moses is
absent. It is strange that a man so prominent in the early traditions of the exodus should
disappear without a trace.
11 As long as Moses kept his hands raised up, Israel had the better of the fight, but
when he let his hands rest, Amalek had the better of the fight. 12 Moses’ hands,
however, grew tired;
Yahweh fights for Israel only when Moses’ hands are raised. This establishes Moses as a
sort of mediator-Christ figure.
so they put a rock in place for him to sit on. Meanwhile Aaron and Hur supported his
hands, one on one side and one on the other, so that his hands remained steady till
sunset.
Even though Moses is the mediator between God and the Hebrews, he requires support
from the people. This shows our responsibility to support our Pope, bishops and priests.
13 And Joshua mowed down Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.
2nd Reading - 2 Timothy 3:14-4:2
Remember that Timothy is bishop of Ephesus. This bishop has encountered some
difficulties and Paul now addresses this letter to him as pastor of his congregation. He
invites Timothy to transmit his teaching to faithful men, urges him to fight as a soldier of
Christ, anxious only to please his Master, to strive as the athlete who aspires to victory, and
to labor as the husbandman who prepares for an abundant harvest. He is ever to keep in
mind the sufferings of Christ, so that he may become a partaker in His immortal life and
reign with Him. He is to remember Paul’s example as to how to live out the life of Christ.
14 [R]emain faithful to what you have learned and believed, because you know from
whom you learned it,
Stand fast. As opposed to the false teachers who lead astray.
15 and that from infancy you have known
Timothy is taught not only by Paul, but also by his family. Jewish parents were obliged to
see that their children were instructed in the Law when they reached the age of five.
(the) sacred scriptures,
The Old Testament; the New Testament hasn’t been written yet and books which compose
it won’t be decided upon for another roughly 350 years.
which are capable of giving you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
The true instruction of the Old Testament can be understood when read in the context of
the Christian community.
16 All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for refutation, for
correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 so that one who belongs to God may
be competent, equipped for every good work.
A couple of points can be made here:
1) The author probably can’t imagine any Scripture texts which aren’t inspired
(literally, God breathed).
2) The text doesn’t say only scripture is useful. God provides a super-abundance, not
just the bare necessity.
Sacred Tradition is also useful for the same purposes accorded to Scripture here. Like what
was evidenced in our introduction to the first reading, some New Testament Traditions are
not written in Scripture (the assumption of Mary and the immaculate conception are two
examples). When you are asked “where in the Bible does it say... you can answer “where in
the Bible does it say not to...” In fact, 2 Thessalonians 2:15 says otherwise.
“‘Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you have been taught,
whether by word or by our letter’ (2 Thessalonians 2:15). From this it is clear that they did
not hand down everything by letter, but there was much also that was not written. Like
that which was written, the unwritten too is worthy of belief. So let us regard the tradition
of the Church also as worthy of belief. Is it a tradition? Seek no further.” [Saint John
Chrysostom (between A.D. 398-404), Homilies on the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians 4,2
4:1 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus,
Paul calls upon two witnesses: God and Jesus. Deuteronomy 17:6 requires two witnesses in
a life and death situation.
who will judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingly power: 2
proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince,
reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.
Paul urges Timothy to be zealous, taking advantage of every opportunity to preach. This is
unusual since the ancients commonly urged speech only when it would be “timely.” God is
the one who keeps the timetable and the word of God is always in season.
“Let it always be your season, not merely in peace and security and when sitting in church.”
[Saint John Chrysostom (between A.D. 393-397), Homilies on the Second Epistle to Timothy
9]
Gospel - Luke 18:1-8
This week we hear the first of two parables on prayer (we will hear the second one
next week). The question has often been put to Jesus “When and how will the end come?”
Jesus always answered that we are to persevere in humility so that we will always be
ready.
18:1 Then he [Jesus] told them a parable about the necessity for them to pray always
without becoming weary.
As the last verse in this reading makes clear, mere continual prayer is not what He is
talking about, but fidelity to God must be the motivator of this prayer.
He said, 2 “There was a judge in a certain town who neither feared God nor respected
any human being. 3 And a widow
A woman who has lost her male agency in a patriarchal society was powerless.
in that town used to come to him
The woman has faith that justice will be done and is therefore persistent. We need to
remain firm in our faith: faith and prayer go hand in hand.
and say, ‘Render a just decision for me against my adversary.’
Probably a rich, influential man. The widow was too poor to bribe either the judge or his
assistant and these officials did not wish to alienate important citizens.
4 For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought, ‘While it is true
that I neither fear God nor respect any human being, 5 because this widow keeps
bothering me I shall deliver a just decision for her lest she finally come and strike
me.’” 6 The Lord said, “Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says.
Two lessons are drawn via the argument from the lesser to the greater:
1) If the persistent pleading of the helpless widow is fruitful, how much more will the
persistent praying of Christian disciples achieve?
2) If an unjust judge yields to the pleadings of a widow, how much will a gracious God?
7 Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and
night? Will he be slow to answer them? 8 I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done
for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes,
The parousia may be long in coming, but it will come surely, speedily, and in a completely
unexpected way.
will he find faith on earth?”
The question is not about God’s vindication of God’s persecuted community; God will
vindicate them. The question is whether Jesus’ disciples will remain faithful to Him during
the long haul caused by the delay of His return.
Our Lord has promised His Church that it will remain true to its mission until the
end of time (Matthew 28:20); the Church, therefore, cannot go off the path of the true faith.
But not everyone will remain faithful: some will turn their backs on the faith of their own
accord. We must stay watchful and persevere in the faith and in prayer even though people
around us fall away.
Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended
that the reader look up and read that passage.
1st Reading - Exodus 17:8-13
The Book of Exodus (the word “exodus” means “departure”) is the second book in
the five books of the Law (the Torah). This book tells of the oppression of the Israelites in
Egypt, the birth and education of Moses and his flight into the land of Midian, his encounter
with God on Mount Sinai (Horeb) (the burning bush), Moses’ return to Egypt and pleadings
with Pharaoh, the plagues of Egypt, the institution of the Passover, the passing through the
Red Sea, the giving of the ten commandments at Mt. Sinai, the golden calf, and the 40 years
of wandering in the desert.
The time between the crossing through the Red Sea and the arrival of the Israelites
at Mount Sinai was three months. It was during this three month period that the people
complained that they were thirsty. God commanded Moses to speak to a rock (he struck it
with his staff) and water flowed from it for the people to drink. Jewish oral tradition must
have held that this rock followed the Jews in their 40-year wandering because no such
event is mentioned in the Old Testament. 1st Corinthians 10:4 however does record this
“following rock”. How different this epistle might have been if Saint Paul had said “If it isn’t
written in Scripture I won’t believe it.”
Our reading today occurs immediately after the rock story and explains why we
(priests and charismatics at least) pray with arms outstretched.
8 [In those days] [ ], Amalek came
Amalek is not a person, but a nomadic tribe listed in the genealogy of Esau (Genesis 36:12).
Just as Jacob fought with Esau, so their descendants are destined to fight. The Amalekites
controlled the caravan routes between Egypt and Arabia.
and waged war against Israel.
This is the first military activity of the newly freed Hebrews.
9 Moses, therefore, said to Joshua,
This is the first mention of Joshua in sacred Scripture. It is Joshua who is later designated to
lead the Israelites into the promised land.
“Pick out certain men, and tomorrow go out and engage Amalek in battle. I will be
standing on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hand.”
This requires faith (and acting on it) on the part of Joshua. Joshua will be fighting while
Moses looks on.
10 So Joshua did as Moses told him: he engaged Amalek in battle after Moses had
climbed to the top of the hill with Aaron
Moses’ brother – later to become High Priest
and Hur.
A contemporary of Moses who later governs the Israelites with Aaron when Moses is
absent. It is strange that a man so prominent in the early traditions of the exodus should
disappear without a trace.
11 As long as Moses kept his hands raised up, Israel had the better of the fight, but
when he let his hands rest, Amalek had the better of the fight. 12 Moses’ hands,
however, grew tired;
Yahweh fights for Israel only when Moses’ hands are raised. This establishes Moses as a
sort of mediator-Christ figure.
so they put a rock in place for him to sit on. Meanwhile Aaron and Hur supported his
hands, one on one side and one on the other, so that his hands remained steady till
sunset.
Even though Moses is the mediator between God and the Hebrews, he requires support
from the people. This shows our responsibility to support our Pope, bishops and priests.
13 And Joshua mowed down Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.
2nd Reading - 2 Timothy 3:14-4:2
Remember that Timothy is bishop of Ephesus. This bishop has encountered some
difficulties and Paul now addresses this letter to him as pastor of his congregation. He
invites Timothy to transmit his teaching to faithful men, urges him to fight as a soldier of
Christ, anxious only to please his Master, to strive as the athlete who aspires to victory, and
to labor as the husbandman who prepares for an abundant harvest. He is ever to keep in
mind the sufferings of Christ, so that he may become a partaker in His immortal life and
reign with Him. He is to remember Paul’s example as to how to live out the life of Christ.
14 [R]emain faithful to what you have learned and believed, because you know from
whom you learned it,
Stand fast. As opposed to the false teachers who lead astray.
15 and that from infancy you have known
Timothy is taught not only by Paul, but also by his family. Jewish parents were obliged to
see that their children were instructed in the Law when they reached the age of five.
(the) sacred scriptures,
The Old Testament; the New Testament hasn’t been written yet and books which compose
it won’t be decided upon for another roughly 350 years.
which are capable of giving you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
The true instruction of the Old Testament can be understood when read in the context of
the Christian community.
16 All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for refutation, for
correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 so that one who belongs to God may
be competent, equipped for every good work.
A couple of points can be made here:
1) The author probably can’t imagine any Scripture texts which aren’t inspired
(literally, God breathed).
2) The text doesn’t say only scripture is useful. God provides a super-abundance, not
just the bare necessity.
Sacred Tradition is also useful for the same purposes accorded to Scripture here. Like what
was evidenced in our introduction to the first reading, some New Testament Traditions are
not written in Scripture (the assumption of Mary and the immaculate conception are two
examples). When you are asked “where in the Bible does it say... you can answer “where in
the Bible does it say not to...” In fact, 2 Thessalonians 2:15 says otherwise.
“‘Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you have been taught,
whether by word or by our letter’ (2 Thessalonians 2:15). From this it is clear that they did
not hand down everything by letter, but there was much also that was not written. Like
that which was written, the unwritten too is worthy of belief. So let us regard the tradition
of the Church also as worthy of belief. Is it a tradition? Seek no further.” [Saint John
Chrysostom (between A.D. 398-404), Homilies on the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians 4,2
4:1 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus,
Paul calls upon two witnesses: God and Jesus. Deuteronomy 17:6 requires two witnesses in
a life and death situation.
who will judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingly power: 2
proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince,
reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.
Paul urges Timothy to be zealous, taking advantage of every opportunity to preach. This is
unusual since the ancients commonly urged speech only when it would be “timely.” God is
the one who keeps the timetable and the word of God is always in season.
“Let it always be your season, not merely in peace and security and when sitting in church.”
[Saint John Chrysostom (between A.D. 393-397), Homilies on the Second Epistle to Timothy
9]
Gospel - Luke 18:1-8
This week we hear the first of two parables on prayer (we will hear the second one
next week). The question has often been put to Jesus “When and how will the end come?”
Jesus always answered that we are to persevere in humility so that we will always be
ready.
18:1 Then he [Jesus] told them a parable about the necessity for them to pray always
without becoming weary.
As the last verse in this reading makes clear, mere continual prayer is not what He is
talking about, but fidelity to God must be the motivator of this prayer.
He said, 2 “There was a judge in a certain town who neither feared God nor respected
any human being. 3 And a widow
A woman who has lost her male agency in a patriarchal society was powerless.
in that town used to come to him
The woman has faith that justice will be done and is therefore persistent. We need to
remain firm in our faith: faith and prayer go hand in hand.
and say, ‘Render a just decision for me against my adversary.’
Probably a rich, influential man. The widow was too poor to bribe either the judge or his
assistant and these officials did not wish to alienate important citizens.
4 For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought, ‘While it is true
that I neither fear God nor respect any human being, 5 because this widow keeps
bothering me I shall deliver a just decision for her lest she finally come and strike
me.’” 6 The Lord said, “Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says.
Two lessons are drawn via the argument from the lesser to the greater:
1) If the persistent pleading of the helpless widow is fruitful, how much more will the
persistent praying of Christian disciples achieve?
2) If an unjust judge yields to the pleadings of a widow, how much will a gracious God?
7 Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and
night? Will he be slow to answer them? 8 I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done
for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes,
The parousia may be long in coming, but it will come surely, speedily, and in a completely
unexpected way.
will he find faith on earth?”
The question is not about God’s vindication of God’s persecuted community; God will
vindicate them. The question is whether Jesus’ disciples will remain faithful to Him during
the long haul caused by the delay of His return.
Our Lord has promised His Church that it will remain true to its mission until the
end of time (Matthew 28:20); the Church, therefore, cannot go off the path of the true faith.
But not everyone will remain faithful: some will turn their backs on the faith of their own
accord. We must stay watchful and persevere in the faith and in prayer even though people
around us fall away.
St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Picayune, MS
http://www.scborromeo.org
http://www.scborromeo.org
TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20, LUKE 18:1-8
(Exodus 17:8-13; Psalm 121; 2 Timothy 3:14―4:2)
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20, LUKE 18:1-8
(Exodus 17:8-13; Psalm 121; 2 Timothy 3:14―4:2)
KEY VERSE: "Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night?" (v. 7).
TO KNOW: Jesus knew that his disciples might lose heart after he ascended to his Father, and he encouraged them to persist in prayer. He told them a parable about a widow who pleaded with a judge for her rights. In contrast to the powerful judge, the widow represented the poor and defenseless. The Law of Moses was meant to protect helpless members of society such as widows, orphans and aliens (Deut 10:18; 14:29; 16:11). This judge might have been a paid magistrate appointed by Herod or by the Romans, for he disregarded both God's law and human need. Without support of a husband and lacking resources of any kind, she had no hope of expecting justice. Nevertheless, the woman persisted in her demands, and the judge finally relented. Jesus did not compare God to an unjust judge. He said, if someone like the judge could be persuaded to give a widow justice, how much more would God answer those who cried for mercy (Ex 22:20-22). Christians must work for God's justice and support legislation on behalf of the poor and defenseless.
TO LOVE: Who are the people in my community whose rights are not heard?
TO SERVE: Lord God, help me to be just in all my dealings.
Sunday 20 October 2019
29th Sunday In Ordinary Time
Exodus 17:8-13. Psalm 120(121). 2 Timothy 3:14 – 4:2. Luke
18:1-8.
Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth – Psalm
120(121)
‘And will not God grant justice to his chosen ones who cry to
him day and night?’
We have all had experience of naggers, those who wear us down,
whose demands we respond to simply for the sake of peace. The widow who
continually bothered the unjust judge had a reluctant audience. God, however,
is not an unjust or unloving judge, but is quick to grant justice. Our God listens
to our prayers and knows our troubles. We need to keep on praying, with a kind
of reverent nagging, as a three year old nags his mother. Like a loving and
patient mother, God is ready with open arms and listening ears.
Let us ask for that grace for which St Ignatius Loyola prayed:
‘May it please Our Lady, to obtain for us from her divine Son, the grace that,
despite all our pain and troubles, our weak and feeble spirits may be
transformed, into spirits which are strong, and which sing God’s praises with joy’.
Saint Paul of the Cross
Saint of the Day for October 20
(January 3, 1694 – October 18, 1775)
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| Saint Paul of the Cross | Engraving | Wellcome Images |
Saint Paul of the Cross’ Story
Born in northern Italy in 1694, Paul Daneo lived at a time when
many regarded Jesus as a great moral teacher but no more. After a brief time as
a soldier, he turned to solitary prayer, developing a devotion to Christ’s
passion. Paul saw in the Lord’s passion a demonstration of God’s love for all
people. In turn that devotion nurtured his compassion and supported a preaching
ministry that touched the hearts of many listeners. He was known as one of the
most popular preachers of his day, both for his words and for his generous acts
of mercy.
In 1720, Paul founded the Congregation of the Passion, whose
members combined devotion to Christ’s passion with preaching to the poor, and
rigorous penances. Known as the Passionists, they add a fourth vow to the
traditional three of poverty, chastity, and obedience, to spread the memory of
Christ’s passion among the faithful. Paul was elected superior general of the
Congregation in 1747, spending the remainder of his life in Rome.
Paul of the Cross died in 1775, and was canonized in 1867. Over
2,000 of his letters and several of his short writings have survived.
Reflection
Paul’s devotion to Christ’s passion must have seemed eccentric
if not bizarre to many people. Yet it was that devotion that nurtured Paul’s
compassion and supported a preaching ministry that touched the hearts of many
listeners. He was one of the most popular preachers of his day, known for both
his words and his generous acts of mercy.
Saint Paul of the Cross is the Patron Saint of:
Hungary
Lectio
Divina: 29th Sunday of ordinary time (C)
Lectio Divina
Sunday, October 20, 2019
A real prayer:
the widow’s example
Luke 18:1-8
the widow’s example
Luke 18:1-8
1. Opening prayer
Lord Jesus, send your Spirit to help us to read the scriptures
with the same mind that You read them to the disciples on the way to Emmaus. In
the light of the Word, written in the bible, You helped them to discover
the presence of God in the disturbing events of Your sentence and death. Thus,
the cross that seemed to be the end of all hope became for them the source of
life and of resurrection.
Create silence in us so that we may listen to Your voice in creation and in the scriptures, in events and in people, above all in the poor and suffering. May Your word guide us so that we too, like the two disciples on the way to Emmaus, may experience the force of Your resurrection and witness to others that You are alive in our midst as source of fraternity, justice and peace. We ask this of You, Jesus, son of Mary, who revealed the Father to us and sent us Your Spirit. Amen.
Create silence in us so that we may listen to Your voice in creation and in the scriptures, in events and in people, above all in the poor and suffering. May Your word guide us so that we too, like the two disciples on the way to Emmaus, may experience the force of Your resurrection and witness to others that You are alive in our midst as source of fraternity, justice and peace. We ask this of You, Jesus, son of Mary, who revealed the Father to us and sent us Your Spirit. Amen.
2. Reading
a) A key to the reading:
This Sunday’s liturgy presents us with a text from Luke’s Gospel
concerning prayer, a theme dear to the heart of Luke. This is the second
time that this Evangelist quotes the words of Jesus to teach us how to pray.
The first time (Lk 11:1-13) introduces the text of the Our
Father and, by means of comparisons and parables, teaches us that we must
pray always and tirelessly. Now, the second time (Lk 18:1-4), Luke has recourse
once more to parables taken from everyday life to teach us how to pray: the
parable of the widow and the judge (18:1-8) and that of the Pharisee and the
publican (Lk 18:9-14). Luke tells the parables in quite a didactic form. Each
parable begins with a brief introduction as a key to its reading. There follows
the parable, and lastly, Jesus Himself applies the parable to life. This
Sunday’s text only narrates the first parable of the widow and the judge (Lk
18:1-8). While reading, it would be good to keep in mind the following: “What
is the attitude of each person involved in this parable?”
b) A division of the text to help us in our reading:
Luke 18:1: A key given by Jesus for an understanding of the
parable.
Luke 18:2-3: The contrast between the judge and the widow.
Luke 18:4-5: The change in the judge and the reason for this change.
Luke 18:6-8a: Jesus applies the parable.
Luke 18:8b: A final provocative statement.
Luke 18:2-3: The contrast between the judge and the widow.
Luke 18:4-5: The change in the judge and the reason for this change.
Luke 18:6-8a: Jesus applies the parable.
Luke 18:8b: A final provocative statement.
c) The text:
Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them
to pray always without becoming weary. He said, "There was a judge in a
certain town who neither feared God nor respected any human being. And a widow
in that town used to come to him and say, 'Render a just decision for me
against my adversary.' For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually
he thought, 'While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human
being, because this widow keeps bothering me I shall deliver a just decision
for her lest she finally come and strike me.'" The Lord said, "Pay
attention to what the dishonest judge says. Will not God then secure the rights
of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer
them? I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But
when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?"
3. A moment of prayerful silence
so that the Word of God may penetrate and enlighten our
life.
4. Some questions
to help us in our personal reflection.
a) What did you like most in this text?
b) What is the attitude of the widow? Or what strikes you most in what she does and says?
c) What strikes you most in the attitude and words of the judge? Why?
d) How does Jesus apply this parable?
e) What does this parable teach us concerning our manner of looking at life and people?
f) What does this parable teach us about our prayer life?
b) What is the attitude of the widow? Or what strikes you most in what she does and says?
c) What strikes you most in the attitude and words of the judge? Why?
d) How does Jesus apply this parable?
e) What does this parable teach us concerning our manner of looking at life and people?
f) What does this parable teach us about our prayer life?
5. A key to the reading
for a deeper understanding of the theme.
a) The historical context:
When analyzing the historical context of Luke’s Gospel, we must
always keep in mind this dual dimension: the time of Jesus in the 30’s, and the
time of those for whom the Gospel is written in the 80’s. These two times
influence, each in its own way, the writing of the text and must be present as
we try to discover the meaning Jesus’ parables have for us today.
b) The literary context:
The immediate literary context presents us two parables on
prayer: praying insistently and perseveringly (the widow and the judge) (Lk
18:1-8); praying humbly and realistically (the Pharisee and the publican) (Lk
18:9-14). Although they are different, these two parables have something in
common. They tell us that Jesus saw the things of life in a different way.
Jesus saw God’s revelation where others saw something negative. For instance,
He saw something positive in the publican, when all said, “He does not know how
to pray!” And in the poor widow of whom it was said, “She is so insistent that
she even troubles the judge!” Jesus was so united to the Father that for Him
everything was transformed into a source of prayer. Many are the ways we can
express ourselves in prayer. There are those who say, “I do not know how to
pray”, yet they speak to God all day. Have you come across anyone like this?
c) A commentary on the text:
Luke 18:1: The key to an understanding of the parable.
Luke introduces the parable thus: “Then He told them a parable about the need to pray continually and never lose heart”. The words “to pray and not lose heart” appear frequently in the New Testament (1 Thess 5:17; Rom 12:12; Eph 6:18; etc.). This was a feature of the spirituality of the early Christian communities. It is also a point on which Luke insists both in the Gospel and in Acts. If you are interested in discovering this dimension in Luke’s writings, carry out this exercise: read the Gospel and Acts and write down all the verses where Jesus or others are praying. You will be surprised!
Luke introduces the parable thus: “Then He told them a parable about the need to pray continually and never lose heart”. The words “to pray and not lose heart” appear frequently in the New Testament (1 Thess 5:17; Rom 12:12; Eph 6:18; etc.). This was a feature of the spirituality of the early Christian communities. It is also a point on which Luke insists both in the Gospel and in Acts. If you are interested in discovering this dimension in Luke’s writings, carry out this exercise: read the Gospel and Acts and write down all the verses where Jesus or others are praying. You will be surprised!
Luke 18:2-3: The contrast between the widow and the judge.
Jesus presents us with two persons from real life: a judge who neither respects God nor persons, and a widow who will not stop fighting for her rights before the judge. The simple fact that Jesus presents these two persons reveals that He knows well the society of His time. Not only does the parable present poor people fighting in court to have their rights recognized, but it also shows us the violent contrast among social groups. On the one hand, an insensitive and irreligious judge, and on the other, the widow who knows which door to knock on to get what is owed to her.
Jesus presents us with two persons from real life: a judge who neither respects God nor persons, and a widow who will not stop fighting for her rights before the judge. The simple fact that Jesus presents these two persons reveals that He knows well the society of His time. Not only does the parable present poor people fighting in court to have their rights recognized, but it also shows us the violent contrast among social groups. On the one hand, an insensitive and irreligious judge, and on the other, the widow who knows which door to knock on to get what is owed to her.
Luke 18:4-5: The change in the judge and the reason for the
change.
For a long time, asking the same thing every day, the widow gets nothing from the insensitive judge. Finally, the judge, even though “he had neither fear of God nor respect for man,” decided to pay attention to the widow and give her justice. The reason is: to be free of this constant nuisance, a rather self-interested reason! However, the widow gets what she wants! This is a fact of daily life and Jesus uses it to teach us how to pray.
For a long time, asking the same thing every day, the widow gets nothing from the insensitive judge. Finally, the judge, even though “he had neither fear of God nor respect for man,” decided to pay attention to the widow and give her justice. The reason is: to be free of this constant nuisance, a rather self-interested reason! However, the widow gets what she wants! This is a fact of daily life and Jesus uses it to teach us how to pray.
Luke 18:6-8: An application of the parable.
Jesus applies the parable: “You notice what the unjust judge has to say? Now will not God see justice done to His chosen who cry to Him day and night even when He delays to help them?” Then He adds that God will see justice done speedily. Were it not Jesus speaking, we would not have the courage to compare God to a judge with this moral attitude. What is important in the comparison is the widow, who, thanks to her insistence, finally gets what she wants.
Jesus applies the parable: “You notice what the unjust judge has to say? Now will not God see justice done to His chosen who cry to Him day and night even when He delays to help them?” Then He adds that God will see justice done speedily. Were it not Jesus speaking, we would not have the courage to compare God to a judge with this moral attitude. What is important in the comparison is the widow, who, thanks to her insistence, finally gets what she wants.
Luke 18:8b: A statement on faith.
At the end, Jesus expresses some doubt: “But when the Son of Man comes, will He find any faith on earth?” Will we have the courage to wait, to be patient, even if God takes time to answer us? We need much faith to go on insisting and acting when we see no result. Anyone who expects immediate results will be disappointed. Many of the psalms speak of this hard and difficult insistence before God until He sees fit to respond (Ps 71:14; 37:7; 69:4; Lam 3:26). When quoting Psalm 80, Saint Peter says that one day for God is like a thousand years (2Pt 3:8; Ps 90:4).
At the end, Jesus expresses some doubt: “But when the Son of Man comes, will He find any faith on earth?” Will we have the courage to wait, to be patient, even if God takes time to answer us? We need much faith to go on insisting and acting when we see no result. Anyone who expects immediate results will be disappointed. Many of the psalms speak of this hard and difficult insistence before God until He sees fit to respond (Ps 71:14; 37:7; 69:4; Lam 3:26). When quoting Psalm 80, Saint Peter says that one day for God is like a thousand years (2Pt 3:8; Ps 90:4).
d) A deepening: Prayer in Luke’s writings
i. Jesus prays in the Gospel
The Gospels present us with a Jesus who prays, who lives in
continuous contact with the Father. Jesus’ only wish is to do the will of the
Father (Jn 5:19). Luke is the one who speaks most of the prayer life of Jesus.
He shows us a Jesus who prays always. Jesus prayed much and insistently, so
that people and His disciples would do the same. It is when facing God in truth
that the person sees him/herself in its reality and humility. Here are some of
the moments when Jesus is praying in Luke’s Gospel:
Lk 2:46-50: When He is twelve, He goes to the temple, His
Father’s house.
Lk 3:21: He prays at His baptism and when He takes on His mission.
Lk 4:1-2: At the beginning of His mission He spends forty days in the desert.
Lk 4:3-12: When He is tempted, He faces the devil with texts from scripture.
Lk 4:16: On Saturdays, Jesus goes to celebrate in the synagogue.
Lk 5:16; 9:18: He seeks solitude in the desert to pray.
Lk 6:12: He spends the night in prayer before choosing the Apostles.
Lk 9:16; 24:30: He prays before meals.
Lk 9:18: He prays before speaking of His passion.
Lk 9:28: In a crisis, on the mountain to pray, He is transfigured during prayer.
Lk 10:21: When the Gospel is revealed to little ones He says, “Thank You, Father...”.
Lk 11:1: As He prays, He inspires the apostles the desire to pray.
Lk 22:32: He prays for Peter, that he may have faith.
Lk 22:7-14: He celebrates the Paschal meal with His disciples.
Lk 22:41-42: He prays and sweats blood in the Garden of Olives.
Lk 22:40.46: In His agony, He asks His friends to pray with Him.
Lk 23:34: When He was being nailed to the cross, He asked pardon for His torturers.
Lk 23:46; Ps 31:6: At the moment of death He says, “Into Your hands I commend My spirit”.
Lk 23:46: Jesus dies with the cry of the poor on His lips.
Lk 3:21: He prays at His baptism and when He takes on His mission.
Lk 4:1-2: At the beginning of His mission He spends forty days in the desert.
Lk 4:3-12: When He is tempted, He faces the devil with texts from scripture.
Lk 4:16: On Saturdays, Jesus goes to celebrate in the synagogue.
Lk 5:16; 9:18: He seeks solitude in the desert to pray.
Lk 6:12: He spends the night in prayer before choosing the Apostles.
Lk 9:16; 24:30: He prays before meals.
Lk 9:18: He prays before speaking of His passion.
Lk 9:28: In a crisis, on the mountain to pray, He is transfigured during prayer.
Lk 10:21: When the Gospel is revealed to little ones He says, “Thank You, Father...”.
Lk 11:1: As He prays, He inspires the apostles the desire to pray.
Lk 22:32: He prays for Peter, that he may have faith.
Lk 22:7-14: He celebrates the Paschal meal with His disciples.
Lk 22:41-42: He prays and sweats blood in the Garden of Olives.
Lk 22:40.46: In His agony, He asks His friends to pray with Him.
Lk 23:34: When He was being nailed to the cross, He asked pardon for His torturers.
Lk 23:46; Ps 31:6: At the moment of death He says, “Into Your hands I commend My spirit”.
Lk 23:46: Jesus dies with the cry of the poor on His lips.
This list of quotations shows us that for Jesus prayer was
intimately connected with life, with concrete fact, with decisions to be taken.
To be faithful to the Father’s plan, He sought to be alone with Him, to listen
to Him. In difficult and decisive moments of His life, Jesus prayed the Psalms.
Like every other devout Jew, He knew them by heart. Saying the Psalms did not
quench His creative spirit. Rather, Jesus invented a psalm, that is,
the Our Father. His life was a constant prayer: “At all times I do what
the Father asks Me to do!” (Jn 5:19, 30). What the Psalm says applies to
Jesus: “... all I had done was pray for them!” (Ps 109:4)
ii. The praying communities in the Acts of the Apostles
As in the Gospel, so also in the Acts, Luke often speaks
of prayer. The first Christians are those who continue the prayer of
Jesus. Here is a list, which in one way or another, speak of prayer. If you
look carefully, you will find other texts again:
Act 1:14: The community perseveres in prayer with Mary, the
mother of Jesus.
Act 1:24: The community prays so as to know who will take the place of Judas.
Act 2:25-35: Peter quotes from the Psalms in his homily.
Act 2:42: The first Christians are faithful in prayer.
Act 2:46-47: They go to the temple to praise God.
Act 3:1: Peter and John go to the temple to pray at the ninth hour.
Act 3:8: The healed lame man praises God.
Act 4:23-31: The community prays under persecution.
Act 5:12: The first Christians stay at Solomon’s gate (temple).
Act 6:4: The apostles devote themselves to prayer and the service of the word.
Act 6:6: They pray before imposing hands on the deacons.
Act 7:59: When he is dying, Stephen prays: “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit”.
Act 7:60: Then Stephen prays: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them”.
Act 8:15: Peter and John pray that the converts may receive the Holy Spirit.
Act 8:22: The sinner is told, “Repent and pray that you may be forgiven”.
Act 8:24: Simon says, “Pray to the Lord for me yourselves so that none of the things you have spoken about may happen to me”
Act 9:11: Paul is praying.
Act 9:40: Peter prays for the healing of Tabitha.
Act 10:2: Cornelius prayed constantly to God.
Act 10:4: Cornelius’ prayers are heard in heaven.
Act 10:9: At the sixth hour, Peter prays on the roof of the house.
Act 10:30-31: Cornelius prays at the ninth hour, and his prayer is heard.
Act 11:5: Peter tells the people of Jerusalem: “I was praying”!
Act 12:5: The community prays when Peter is in jail.
Act 12:12: Many people are gathered in prayer in Mary’s house.
Act 13:2-3: The community prays and fasts before sending Paul and Barnabas.
Act 13:48: The pagans rejoice and glorify the Word of God.
Act 14:23: The missionaries pray to appoint the coordinators of the communities.
Act 16:13: At Philippi, near the river, there is a place of prayer.
Act 16:16: Paul and Silas were going to prayer.
Act 16:25: At night, Paul and Silas sing and pray in prison.
Act 18:9: Paul has a vision of the Lord at night.
Act 19:18: Many confess their sins.
Act 20:7: They met to break bread (the Eucharist).
Act 20:32: Paul commends to God the coordinators of the communities.
Act 20:36: Paul prays on his knees with the coordinators of the communities.
Act 21:5: They kneel on the shore to pray.
Act 21:14: Before the inevitable, the people say, God’s will be done!
Act 21:20: They glorify God for all that Paul has done.
Act 21:26: Paul goes to the temple to fulfill a promise.
Act 22:17-21: Paul prays in the temple, he has a vision and speaks with God.
Act 23:11: In the prison in Jerusalem, Paul has a vision of Jesus.
Act 27:23ff: Paul has a vision of Jesus during the storm at sea.
Act 27:35: Paul takes the bread, gives thanks to God before arriving in Malta.
Act 28:8: Paul prays over Publius’ father, who had a fever.
Act 28:15: Paul gives thanks to God on seeing the brethren in Pozzuoli.
Act 1:24: The community prays so as to know who will take the place of Judas.
Act 2:25-35: Peter quotes from the Psalms in his homily.
Act 2:42: The first Christians are faithful in prayer.
Act 2:46-47: They go to the temple to praise God.
Act 3:1: Peter and John go to the temple to pray at the ninth hour.
Act 3:8: The healed lame man praises God.
Act 4:23-31: The community prays under persecution.
Act 5:12: The first Christians stay at Solomon’s gate (temple).
Act 6:4: The apostles devote themselves to prayer and the service of the word.
Act 6:6: They pray before imposing hands on the deacons.
Act 7:59: When he is dying, Stephen prays: “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit”.
Act 7:60: Then Stephen prays: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them”.
Act 8:15: Peter and John pray that the converts may receive the Holy Spirit.
Act 8:22: The sinner is told, “Repent and pray that you may be forgiven”.
Act 8:24: Simon says, “Pray to the Lord for me yourselves so that none of the things you have spoken about may happen to me”
Act 9:11: Paul is praying.
Act 9:40: Peter prays for the healing of Tabitha.
Act 10:2: Cornelius prayed constantly to God.
Act 10:4: Cornelius’ prayers are heard in heaven.
Act 10:9: At the sixth hour, Peter prays on the roof of the house.
Act 10:30-31: Cornelius prays at the ninth hour, and his prayer is heard.
Act 11:5: Peter tells the people of Jerusalem: “I was praying”!
Act 12:5: The community prays when Peter is in jail.
Act 12:12: Many people are gathered in prayer in Mary’s house.
Act 13:2-3: The community prays and fasts before sending Paul and Barnabas.
Act 13:48: The pagans rejoice and glorify the Word of God.
Act 14:23: The missionaries pray to appoint the coordinators of the communities.
Act 16:13: At Philippi, near the river, there is a place of prayer.
Act 16:16: Paul and Silas were going to prayer.
Act 16:25: At night, Paul and Silas sing and pray in prison.
Act 18:9: Paul has a vision of the Lord at night.
Act 19:18: Many confess their sins.
Act 20:7: They met to break bread (the Eucharist).
Act 20:32: Paul commends to God the coordinators of the communities.
Act 20:36: Paul prays on his knees with the coordinators of the communities.
Act 21:5: They kneel on the shore to pray.
Act 21:14: Before the inevitable, the people say, God’s will be done!
Act 21:20: They glorify God for all that Paul has done.
Act 21:26: Paul goes to the temple to fulfill a promise.
Act 22:17-21: Paul prays in the temple, he has a vision and speaks with God.
Act 23:11: In the prison in Jerusalem, Paul has a vision of Jesus.
Act 27:23ff: Paul has a vision of Jesus during the storm at sea.
Act 27:35: Paul takes the bread, gives thanks to God before arriving in Malta.
Act 28:8: Paul prays over Publius’ father, who had a fever.
Act 28:15: Paul gives thanks to God on seeing the brethren in Pozzuoli.
This list tells us two important things. On the one hand, the
early Christians kept the traditional liturgy of the people. Like Jesus, they
pray at home among the family, in community and in the synagogue and together with
the people of the temple. On the other hand, apart from the traditional
liturgy, there appears a new way of praying among them in community and with a
new content. The root of this new prayer comes from the new experience of “God
in Jesus and from a clear and deep awareness of the presence of God in midst of
the community: “In Him we live, move and are!” (Acts 17:28)
6. Prayer: Psalm 63 (62)
A longing for God expressed in prayer
God, You are my God, I pine for You;
my heart thirsts for You, my body longs for You,
as a land parched, dreary and waterless.
Thus I have gazed on You in the sanctuary,
seeing Your power and Your glory.
Better Your faithful love than life itself;
my lips will praise You.
my heart thirsts for You, my body longs for You,
as a land parched, dreary and waterless.
Thus I have gazed on You in the sanctuary,
seeing Your power and Your glory.
Better Your faithful love than life itself;
my lips will praise You.
Thus I will bless You all my life,
in Your name lift up my hands.
All my longings fulfilled as with fat and rich foods,
a song of joy on my lips and praise in my mouth.
On my bed when I think of You,
I muse on You in the watches of the night,
for You have always been my help;
in the shadow of Your wings I rejoice;
my heart clings to You,
Your right hand supports me.
in Your name lift up my hands.
All my longings fulfilled as with fat and rich foods,
a song of joy on my lips and praise in my mouth.
On my bed when I think of You,
I muse on You in the watches of the night,
for You have always been my help;
in the shadow of Your wings I rejoice;
my heart clings to You,
Your right hand supports me.
May those who are hounding me to death
go down to the depths of the earth,
given over to the blade of the sword,
and left as food for jackals.
Then the king shall rejoice in God,
all who swear by Him shall gain recognition,
for the mouths of liars shall be silenced.
go down to the depths of the earth,
given over to the blade of the sword,
and left as food for jackals.
Then the king shall rejoice in God,
all who swear by Him shall gain recognition,
for the mouths of liars shall be silenced.
7. Final Prayer
Lord Jesus, we thank You for the word that has enabled us to
understand better the will of the Father. May Your Spirit enlighten our actions
and grant us the strength to practice what Your Word has revealed to us. May
we, like Mary, Your mother, not only listen to but also practice the Word, You
who live and reign with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit forever and
ever. Amen.
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