ACTS: A Way to Live

Tuesday, April 5

ACTS: A Way to Live

The Gospel of Luke—Lent 2022

Read Luke 18:1-8

Focus Verse—Luke 18:1

Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.

ACTion for Reflection: Jesus Teaches about Persistence in Prayer

In our parable today, God represents the judge and we are the powerless person (the widow) persistently nagging the powerful (yet corrupt) person (the judge) to do justice for her. Keep in mind, Jesus doesn’t mean that God is corrupt, the point is that if persistence pays off with a corrupt human of limited power, how much more will it pay off with a just God of infinite power. God is not bothered by “constant knocking”, rather he encourages it.

The purpose of the parable is to encourage Christians to persevere in their faith against all odds. It’s not easy. As a matter of fact, I think one of the most difficult aspects of prayer is persevering when it seems that God isn’t listening or answering. He wants us, like this nagging widow, to keep on asking. God isn’t like the corrupt judge. He is compassionate and cares for us He is more than ready to grant our requests when He knows that we are ready to receive the answer. So, keep on praying and don’t lose heart. He will bring about justice, according to His timetable, not ours.

ACTion to Live Out: Encourage others to be persistent in prayer

One way to encourage others to never give up on praying is to share a Bible verse like Colossians 4:2, Ephesians 6:18, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, or any favorite verses you have. Send a card, text someone, or consider calling or talking to someone God leads you to.

If you have an example of how you “kept knocking” and God answered, please share that in the comments below and with others. Examples are so inspirational!!

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank you for teaching us how to live! After we daily reflect on your life-giving words, help us to then, through your Spirit, get up and ACT. Give us hearts of compassion, hands of generosity, and feet that take your good news to the world. What an honor it is to be your image bearer. Amen.

Audio of Luke 18: https://youtu.be/TD-TsE-P81Y