PERSEVERING IN PRAYER AND FAITH

Today’s readings speak powerfully to moments when life asks us to hold on—when we feel weary, discouraged, or tempted to give up. They remind us that perseverance in faith is not about relying on our own strength but trusting in the One who fights for us, who never sleeps, and whose justice will surely come.

In the First Reading, Moses stands atop a hill with hands raised in prayer. As long as his hands are lifted, Israel prevails. But Moses grows tired—like any of us would. Then Aaron and Hur come alongside to support him. Victory is not won by Moses alone but through his community leaning on God’s power. In your battles—illness, grief, injustice, exhaustion—remember: you are not alone. God sends helpers. And even when your strength fades, His does not.

Psalm 121 affirms this truth: “My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” God watches over us not as a distant observer but as a loving protector, guarding us day and night. Trust that you are seen, known, and cared for—always.

In the Second Reading, St. Paul urges Timothy—and us—to remain faithful to the Scriptures and to preach whether convenient or not. The Word of God sustains us. When perseverance seems impossible, return to His Word and be renewed.

In the Gospel, Jesus teaches through the parable of the Persistent Widow. Her situation is unjust, yet she returns again and again to the judge. And Jesus tells us—if even an unjust judge grants justice to persistence, how much more will our loving Father respond to His children who cry out to Him day and night? Jesus is teaching us the right attitude in prayer: persistence, humility, and faith. God hears us—and often answers beyond what we ask.

When I was at the Arvisu House Jesuit Candidacy, I experienced the same desperation as the widow. During our discernment retreat, I longed to see, hear, and feel Jesus—but nothing was “happening” in prayer. In my last recourse, I begged for the intercession of the Blessed Mother, Our Lady of Lourdes. Truly, the Son cannot ignore His Mother’s plea. A day before the retreat ended, God answered. A breakthrough came—and it changed the course of my life.

The prophet Jeremiah says, “When you seek me with all your heart, you will find me” (Jer 29:13). These words testify to the power of persistence and the truth that God listens. So, pray—not because God forgets you, but because prayer keeps your heart connected to Him. Persevere. Lift your hands. Lean on others. Stay rooted in His Word. And trust that God is working, even when unseen.