Keep asking: God will answer our prayers

	Word to Life  Jean Denton

She's been praying for him his whole life, and now that my friend's son is well into his 20s, she's finally learned how to pray for him, she told me recently.

The son earned his college degree after six years of struggle. For two years he worked temporary jobs while applying for various professional positions.

His mother prayed that he would land his dream job. He faced a steady stream of trials as a child and young adult. In light of his goodness, she believed it was his turn to see fortune smile.

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Sunday, July 29, 2007) Genesis 18:20-32 Psalm 138:1-2, 2-3, 6-7, 7-8 Colossians 2:12-14 Luke 11:1-13

The job market was saturated. His hopes were dashed repeatedly. Over the phone his mother heard the frustration in his voice and dutifully encouraged him. But in her prayer she beseeched God: When will this child catch a break? Lord, he is trying so hard. Then she remembered to thank God for her son's life, for the progress he made, for his girlfriend whom he loved. She altered her prayer, asking simply that he find a way to make a living that allowed him to be a loving person who serves his community.

The son continued contacting every lead he got. He saw a career counselor to improve his interviewing skills. He'd never shown such diligence. He applied with a retail merchandise chain even though he had zero interest in the retail business; he was turned down. His mom knew it wasn't the right job for him, so she began praying: Lord, whatever it takes, just let him have a job.

As he doggedly pursued dwindling leads she finally prayed: I know, Lord, you love him more than I do, and somehow in your own time you will carry him to the place that's best for him as your child.

	Reflection questions • When have you experienced a change of heart in prayer? • How have you found spiritual growth through perseverance in your communication with God?

Soon the son called to tell his parents about his new job with a non-profit that promotes an important cause. He'd done it through perseverance and self-reliance - two traits his mother realized he needed to develop. She realized, too, that she needed to persevere in her prayer in order to bring her desires in line with God's.

That's what this weekend's Scriptures urge us to do: Keep asking God and you will receive his blessings which include a deeper understanding of his love.

This column is offered in cooperation with the North Texas Catholic of Fort Worth, Texas.