July 27, 2025 (17th Sunday in Ordinary Time) – PRAYER

This Sunday’s readings are focused on prayer and persistence (Abraham’s persistence in asking pardon for the innocent in Sodom and Gomorrah: Gen:18:20-32, and Jesus’ introduction of the Lord’s prayer, followed by the analogy of a good father not giving his son a scorpion when asked for an egg: Luke 11:12.) 

I feel there is at least the suggestion that, if we are praying persistently, we are asking for something specific (likely selfish). Is there a contradiction between praying persistently (“if he does not answer the prayer because of his friendship, he will answer it because of his persistence…” Lk 11:8) and praying for God’s will instead of our own (“not my will, but yours be done.” Lk 22:42)? I don’t know about you, but I have a difficult time praying for my earthly needs and desires persistently, when I know God will answer them in His own way and in His own time, regardless of how I will interpret the gift in the moment it is given.  How should I pray, then? God knows my needs before I ask. He knows my future, and desires what is best for me, even when I don’t. Seek first the Kingdom and all the other things will be given to you as well (Mt 6:33)…easier said than done. Lord, help me align my prayers and desires with your will!