When we see the child in the sweet shop nagging and moaning at mum or dad for something, we probably don’t think of it as a model of our prayer lives! And yet, if we take the word of God seriously today, that is exactly what out faith teaches us to do! The message is persistence – never giving up, even if prayers do not seem to be answered. We shouldn’t ask why they are not answered on the spot (God’s probably got a reason), but should just continue beating on the door of heaven in faith and hope.
Today’s Scripture
Genesis 18: 20 – 32
Response: Psalm 137
I thank you, Lord, with all my heart, you have heard the words of my mouth. Before the angels I will bless you.
I will adore before your holy temple.
I thank you for your faithfulness and love which excel all we ever knew of you.
On the day I called, you answered;
You increased the strength of my soul.
The Lord is high yet he looks on the lowly and the haughty he knows from afar. Though I walk in the midst of affliction you give me lift and frustrate my foes.
You stretch out your hand and save me, your hand will do all things for me. Your love, O Lord, is eternal,
discard not the work of your hands.
Colossians 21: 12 – 14
Acclamation for the Gospel:
Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia!
The spirit you received is the spirit of adoption, and it makes us cry out “Abba, Father!” Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia!
Luke 11: 1–13
Prayer of the Faithful: R/. Lord, answer!