17th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle C

Luke 11:1-13

“‘Lord, teach us to pray…’” (Luke 11:1)

In today’s Gospel, Jesus presents both the what and the how of prayer to his disciples, providing for us a model of intimacy with the Lord.

What we know as the Our Father is the “what” of prayer. While slightly different from what we recite at Mass, it is centered on sustenance, forgiveness, and deliverance.

Jesus also presents the “how” of prayer, revealing that persistence and trust are vital. Ultimately, He shows us the importance of persistence in our prayers, not because we somehow need to earn God’s love and providence, but because a disposition of great faith and trust, as well as what some have called a shameless audacity, brings one to the place in which he is able to truly receive what it is that God has for him. Persistence is predicated by intimacy. 

Additionally Jesus presents the importance of trusting in the providence of God, which flows naturally from intimacy. If we can be so confident in the providence of humans and institutions, how much more should we trust in the God who is the model and source of all love and providence! 

I encourage you to join me in looking at the way we relate to God in our approach to life and to prayer. Is it founded upon intimacy? Are we asking God for the things we want? Are we asking God for the things we need? If so, do we persist and sit with Him while we wait and listen, or are we quick to move on in pursuit of providing for ourselves? Take a concrete step this week to step into trust and take Jesus’ word in faith! He desires intimacy with you. He loves you! Let Him provide.