Genesis 18:20–32; Colossians 2:12–14; Luke 11:1–13

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today’s readings speak to the heart of our faith, prayer, persistence, and the generous mercy of God. But let’s be honest, sometimes, we pray like we are dialing a customer service line. “Press 1 for healing, 2 for help, and 3 if you are feeling abandoned!” But God is not some heavenly operator on hold. He is a loving Father waiting for us to speak.

In the first reading from Genesis, Abraham plays the role of a divine negotiator, pleading with God to spare Sodom. He dares to bargain, from fifty down to ten righteous people. God listens each time without anger or offense. That’s our God, slow to anger, rich in mercy, and open to dialogue. Abraham reminds us: if you are going to talk to God, be bold! God’s patience is bigger than our fears.

In the Gospel, Jesus teaches the disciples how to pray, not with complicated words, but with trust and intimacy: “Our Father…” Not a distant king, but a caring parent. Then Jesus adds humor and logic, if even a sleepy neighbor or flawed parent responds to persistent requests, how much more will our Perfect Father in heaven?

Jesus says, “Ask, and it will be given; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened” (Luke 11:9). God is not bothered by our prayers, He welcomes them. He wants us to trust Him like children who believe their parents are listening.

Finally, St. Paul reminds us in Colossians that through Christ, “God forgave us all our trespasses” (Colossians 2:13). Not some, all. The slate is clean; the debt is cancelled. And that’s Good News!

So, keep asking. Keep seeking. Keep knocking. And don’t worry, God never sleeps, and He doesn’t need coffee to pay attention!

Your Priest,

Fr. Charles Enyinnia