The Importunate Widow (Re-printed from earlier issue of Revive)

Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.(Luke 18: 1)

The parables of Jesus were often meant to illustrate specific doctrines or duties. The parable of the prodigal son reveals the readiness of God to save sinners. In the parable of the widow we see a Judge described as unjust. He was a man without fear of God. He is described as a man who had no regard for anyone. Perhaps he had no time to devote for this poor widow. He knew she could not offer him any money. He was interested in doing things well and in making money for himself. 

Not doing justice to a widow was considered a sin. Jesus charged the Pharisees with devouring widows’ houses. This widow was in trouble but had none to help her. Though she requested this Judge or lawyer to plead on her behalf he was not concerned. He simply ignored her cries many times. She did not give up. She kept knocking at his door again and again. “Decide for me against my oppressor”. Perhaps this oppressor was rich and could control this Judge. The poor widow went to the Judge again and again though she was not given any recognition. Inspite of the Judge’s rude behaviour she continued her requests. Within his heart one day he decides, “Because this widow troubleth me I will avenge her lest by her continual coming she weary me! In the Malayalam translation the Judge says to himself, “This widow may slap me on my face for my negligence of her case”. He was honest to confess that being a man who had no fear of God and regard for anyone he admitted his humble widow bothered him by her repeated going to him and requesting for help.

This widow had the patience to keep going back to the Judge again and again requesting for help and did not give up until she received it. Jesus taught this parable to remind us that “men ought always to pray and not to faint”. 

If the widow’s continual going to the Judge had changed his attitude, how much more the Heavenly Father answer the prayers of His children. To tell God our wants and seek His blessing is prayer. The birds of the air pray to the Creator early in the morning in their own language. The Lions and the beasts of the Jungles pray for their food. Their cries are answered. 

For a child of God constant grace to live victoriously is received only through prayer. Our Father in Heaven to whom we pray is just holy and is able to help us. We learn from this parable to prevail and to continue in prayer until we receive the blessing. This widow exhorts is to pray without ceasing and without getting discouraged. Are we ready to listen to her urge is to pray as we ought to pray, starting today?