The readings for this Saturday powerfully connect through three themes beginning with the letter 'F' : Faith , Force , and Fidelity ...
The readings for this Saturday powerfully connect through three themes beginning with the letter 'F': Faith, Force, and Fidelity.
First, Faith. The Gospel ends with Jesus' poignant question: "When the Son of man comes, will he find any faith on earth?" This question is directed at us. The parable of the Persistent Widow is a testament to the Faith needed to keep asking. The unjust judge granted justice just to get rid of the widow. If a corrupt human judge can respond to sheer persistence, how much more will our loving God respond to the unwavering Faith of His elect! Faith is the Fidelity that keeps us persistent.
Second, the Force of God's Word. Our First Reading describes God's Word as a "pitiless warrior" that leaped down from the throne, carrying an unambiguous command. This is the Force of God's saving power! The Word of God has the Force to transform all creation, as it did in the Exodus—turning water into dry land so His children could pass safely. The Word of God is not weak; it is a mighty, transformative Force that acts on our behalf.
Finally, Fidelity. God's people were protected and saved in the Exodus because of God’s Fidelity to His promises. He remembered His holy word to Abraham. Our prayer is a call for God's Fidelity, and God's response is a call for our Fidelity in return. We are to pray always and not lose heart. The widow’s persistence was her Fidelity to her need. Our Fidelity to prayer is what God seeks. Let us live with a determined Faith, trust in the saving Force of God's Word, and maintain our Fidelity to prayer. Amen.
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