Persistence in Prayer: A Way to Win

29th Sunday in Ordinary Time: October 19, 2025

Readings: Exodus 17:8-13; Psalm 121:1-8; 2 Timothy 3:14-4:2; Luke 18:1-8

To win a game, we must know our competence. Our courage and dedication will enable the competitive spirit to win a game. Persistence, consistency and resilience are essential to mantras for any victory. Our efforts bear fruit depending on when we adhere to the rules of the game and make use of our every talent diligently. We can win the battle if we are ready to fight with determination and dedication. The liturgical readings on this Sunday invite us to embrace the spirit of Moses, eloquence of St Paul and the wisdom of Jesus. Moses along with his people Israelites have to fight for their survival with no weapons in hand. Only weapon they had was the great courage of Moses and his intimate relationship with Yaweh through prayer. As we delve deeper into the Word of God, we are truly inspired to follow the the path that was tread by Moses, Jesus and St Paul.

1. Persistence in the absence of God's Presence

In this Gospel passage, Luke 18:1-8, Jesus tells the story of a widow who keeps coming to an unjust judge, pleading for justice. Though the judge has no fear of God and no respect for people, he eventually grants her request—not because he has become righteous, but because she refuses to give up. Jesus then contrasts this unjust judge with God, who is just and compassionate. Unlike the unjust judge, God always listens to us; moreover, if we pray persistently, then He will grant us everything. 

Jesus invites his disciples to a persevering prayer. He invites us to trust in God’s faithfulness and to remain steadfast in hope, even when answers seem delayed. Through prayer, we may not be able to change God's mind; however, we could change our perception of God altogether. In Other words, we can be stronger in every way. Just like the widow, we too are powerless before the strength of God. However, through our persistent cry, we could turn into strength. When we feel vulnerable, unheard, or overwhelmed, we can still allow the promise of hope to burn. God may seem silent at times, but He is never absent.

2. Courage to stand by the truth

St Paul writes with deep affection and urgency to Timothy (2 Timothy 3:14-4:2), his beloved co-worker in the Gospel. He reminds him to “continue in what you have learned and firmly believed” because Timothy’s faith is rooted in the living Word of God and the example of those who taught him. Paul encourages Timothy to enable the community under his care that is to teach, correct and train them in righteousness, so that God’s people may be fully equipped for every good work.

This message meant for Timothy is also for us. It's a call to walk the path of discipleship. Faith is not a one-time decision; it is a daily commitment to remain rooted in the Word and to live it courageously. In a world that constantly shifts its values and truths, Paul calls us to remain steadfast, anchored in God’s Word, which does not change with the seasons. As disciples of Jesus, we are called to speak the truth boldly, whether the time is convenient or not. This requires courage. To be a Christian witness is to be a sign of hope, a bearer of truth, even when the world would rather remain asleep.

3. Accepting the assistance of others

In Exodus 17:8-13, we see a powerful image of faith, leadership, and communal support. As Israel faces the Amalekites in battle, Moses climbs a hill with the staff of God in his hands. His raised arms become a sign of intercession and dependence on God’s power. As long as his hands are lifted, Israel is victorious. But when his arms grow weary, Amalek gains ground. Then Aaron and Hur step in—they support his hands, ensuring that they remain steady until the battle is won. It was not less a struggle or painful moment when the tension of battle is around them. 

This beautiful scene reveals a deep spiritual truth: victory belongs to God, but it requires our faith and perseverance. We need to work hard.  Moses’ uplifted arms are not about physical strength but spiritual trust. The staff he holds is a sign of God’s presence and power—a reminder that Israel’s strength does not lie in its weapons but in the Lord who fights for them. We are not alone in our faith journey. The accompaniment of others is also essential. Even Moses needs help. When we are weary, tierd, alone and lonely, God often sends people —friends, family, or community—who help sustain us. And we, too, are called to be Aaron and Hur for others: to lift them up when their faith falters.

Questions for Personal Reflection:

1. How deeply do I allow God’s Word to form and guide my daily decisions?
2. Where is God inviting me to be courageous in witnessing to the Gospel?
3. What “battles” am I facing that require me to rely more deeply on God’s strength than on my own?
4. How can I grow in persevering prayer that trusts in God’s power?

Prayer:

Loving and mighty God, You are our strength in every battle and our refuge in every storm. Just as You were with Moses on the hilltop, be with us when we grow weary and weak. Teach us to lift our hands and hearts in trust, knowing that victory belongs to You. Surround us with people who will help us stand firm, and make us instruments of support for others in their moments of need. Strengthen our faith, deepen our hope, and keep us united in Your love. We place all our struggles into Your hands, confident that You will fight for us and lead us to peace. We make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name, Amen.

- Fr Olvin Veigas, SJ

Email: olvinveigas@jesuits.net

Blog: Celebrate Faith

16 October 2025\\