Reflection

Luke 18:1-14

Today, Jesus shares a story about a persistent widow and the prayers of a Pharisee tax collector. Again, these stories are separate, but there appears to be a related theme.

The story about a persistent widow speaks of an unjust Judge who isn’t making a ruling and really seems to be ignoring a widow’s plea. However, she persistently keeps coming back for a ruling. Finally, the judge makes a ruling out of a desire for her to stop coming to him and causing him grief. Jesus tells us that God is a good judge and will answer those who He has chosen if we are persistent like the widow. Not out of frustration but out of His goodness and right judgement.

The second story is an image of a Pharisee talking to God and almost bragging about how good he is and how he is thankful he isn’t like all the sinful people around, including the tax collectors. The story then cuts to the tax collector looking to God and pleading, asking for forgiveness as a broken sinner. Jesus says the tax collector was the one who returned home justified.

These stories, while different, both share about our relationship with God. God is the righteous, perfect judge who listens to the prayers of those who seek Him. However, being the righteous judge also knows what is really in our hearts. He sees beyond all of our outward works and religious practices.

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The longer we allow God to work in our lives, the easier it is for us to think we are “better” than others in our lives. The reality is, however, we are broken and sinful and choose our will or think thoughts against God’s will constantly. When we want someone to suffer so we can succeed. When we use our influence and belittle another’s worth or simply to ignore their place in our world. When we say mean things to the fast food worker. In the parables today, I see a just and righteous God who desires an authentic relationship with His creation so He can restore us to His intended design.

Devotional Questions

What are you taking to the Lord in prayer today?

How can you authentically and persistently take this to the Lord this week?

What stands in the way of having an authentic relationship with the Lord today?

Lord, perfect, righteous, and just judge, we come to you as broken sinners looking for your healing and redemption. Amen