Saint Rita Catholic Church and School in Webster, NY - An Introduction to Sunday's Scripture Readings

“Lord, Teach Us To Pray”

This Sunday's readings teach us not only what to pray, but when to pray and how to pray - with persistence and hope.

Our first reading (Genesis 18:20-32) is an early teaching of both persistence in prayer and God's willing mercy. Abraham learned that the three divine visitors (from last week's first reading) planned on carrying out God's destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah for their wickedness. Abraham implored God, with persistence, to "spare the whole place" for the sake of the few innocents. After many persistent requests, God granted his request.

In our Epistle reading (Colossians 2:12-14), St. Paul explains how God, in His infinite love and mercy, has rescued us, despite our bondage of sin; and has forgiven our transgressions, nailing them to the cross. As Jesus was raised from the dead by the Father, we also will be raised with Him. Paul writes, “He brought you to life along with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions; obliterating the bond against us….”

In our Gospel reading (Luke 11:1-13), the disciples asked Jesus how to pray. "Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples." Jesus’ response was to teach them the Lord's Prayer, with its focus on the Father in heaven. Then He followed it with instruction on persistence and the willing mercy and generosity of the Father. Finally, Jesus taught the disciples the effectiveness of prayer. "And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you…. What father among you would hand his son a snake when he asks for a fish?”

Prayer is said to be communicating with God in a relationship of love. Prayer is a two-way conversation—listening and speaking. Prayer should not be just an as-needed, case-by-case event when we need something; it should be a way of life, a life-long conversation between kindred souls, covering the whole gambit of emotions and feelings. If you’re sad, share it; if you’re happy, share it; if you’re angry or anxious, share it; if you’re excited or exuberant, share that too.

bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/072725.cfm