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Reflection on this Sunday's scripture readings
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This week our focus is on perseverance and prayer. In the first reading the Israelites are engaged in battle against the Amalekites, fierce tribal fighters. Moses directs Joshua to attack while he stands on the hilltop with arms outstretched holding the rod he used to defeat Pharaoh. While he had his arms raised the Israelites had the advantage and understood that God was on their side. Moses persevered in spite of his weariness and Joshua defeated Amalek.
The gospel reading is from the section of Luke's material on Jesus' second coming which the disciples thought was imminent. When it became evident that his return was delayed, they needed encouragement to persevere. Luke draws two lessons from Jesus' parable. If the helpless widow can triumph over an unjust judge, how much more will the persistent praying of a disciple achieve. If an unjust judge gives in to a widow, how much more will a gracious God respond to prayer. Can we allow these readings to be an encouragement to us?