Do Not Give Up

 

We will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up.

Reflection on Today’s Readings, Saturday of 32nd Week in Ordinary Time II, Nov. 16th, 2024

Texts: 3 John 5-8; Psalm 112:1-6; Luke 18:1-8

There are some passages in the Scripture that speak to today’s readings. One of such passages is Galatians 6:9: “So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up.”

We also see it in Proverbs 3:3-5: “Do not let loyalty and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favour and high regard in the sight of God and of people. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight.” 

God loves our perseverance

Prayer is one of the right things must not give up, even when it seems abortive or unyielding. God loves our perseverance and takes glory in it. Our perseverance is a worthy and acceptable sacrifice before God. Our constancy does not only thrill God but also humans. Hence, the Proverbs say, “Then you will find favour and high regard in the sight of God and of people.” Let us be constant in praying, for God loves it.

Constancy pays, for St. Paul says, “We will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up

.” It is just a matter of time, constancy will give its reward. St. John, in the first reading, encourages us to lend constant support to brethren, especially strangers; those who work for God. Today’s Psalm emphasises the fear of the Lord, generosity, mercy, justice, keeping the commandments of God, etc.

It is our show of faith

Our constancy, persistence or faithfulness is our expression of trust in God with all our hearts. Put differently, it is our show of faith. Hence, in today’s gospel reading, Jesus Christ asks, “Nevertheless, when the Son of man comes, will he find faith on earth?"  In other words, “will there still be people doing good in the face of challenges?”

Prayer

God our Father, grant us the grace of steadfastness that we may never relent in doing Your Will; May we hold on to Your words till You come again. Amen

Fr. Andrew Olowomuke