Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Accepted Prayers

 Luke 18: 1-14

 

I. St. Luke 18:1-8 : A persistent prayer based on God’s character. 
St. Luke mentions a number of widows in the ministry of Jesus. In addition to being vulnerable, widows appear prophetic, active and faithful. The widow in this story is persistent enough to get the justice she demands from the unjust judge. We are assured that God wants what is best for us and we may surely assume that God wants to give all that we are told to ask for in the Lord’s Prayer. God takes the place of the unjust judge granting justice to those who cry day and night. 
II. St. Luke 18:9-14 : A humble repentant prayer for God’s mercy.
Vs. 9-14 show penitent, God-focused prayer. The tax-collector did not even feel worthy to approach God. The Pharisee did not pray for anything whereas the tax-collector had an accurate view of God and of himself. In these two parables, we have learnt two kinds of prayer that God accepts. Both prayers are God-centered. May the Lord give us humble repentant hearts to turn from all sin every day. Amen.


Rev Dr M O Oommen Jr.
St. Thomas School, Ranchi

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