6th Week of Easter
Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete. (John 16:24)
To a large extent, the way we petition God depends on our concept of who he is. Advocates of the “prosperity gospel” approach God like a benevolent benefactor—the Great Provider in the sky. They ask for wealth, position, success, and all the other things they think will ensure a happy life. At the other end of the spectrum are those who feel too sinful or unworthy of God’s favor. If they ask for anything at all, it is for forgiveness—usually over and over again.
Both approaches miss the mark. God doesn’t want us to be selfish in our petitions, nor does he want us to avoid asking because we feel undeserving. He does, however, want us to ask. His answer may surprise us, and it may not always be what we expect, but we can be sure that he will give us the best possible response to our requests.
King Solomon is a good example. God told him, “Whatever you ask I shall give you” (1 Kings 3:5). Solomon could have asked for anything—a long life, riches, or the death of his enemies. Instead, Solomon asked for “a listening heart to judge your people and to distinguish between good and evil.” This request was so pleasing to God that he not only gave Solomon what he requested, but riches, glory, and a long life as well (3:13-14).
Jesus told his disciples, “Until now you have not asked anything in my name; ask and you will receive” (John 16:24). Jesus receives our requests as a friend because he wants us to have a joyful, abundant life. When he tells us to ask, he doesn’t impose any limits—so long as our asking is in line with the nature of his love. We can ask for as much wisdom as Solomon had. We can ask for a life as productive as St. Paul’s. We can ask to love as fully as Mary did.
So aim high. Believe that if you keep on knocking on heaven’s door, your prayers will be answered with the wisdom and generosity that come from a loving, gracious God.
“Come, Holy Spirit, and open my eyes to the wonders of Jesus’ love. Help me to believe that he wants to give me everything I need, so that my joy might be complete.”
Acts 18:23-28; Psalm 47:2-3, 8-10
Daily Marriage Tip for May 16, 2015:
(Reader’s Tip) Pray together daily, listen to each other and wait to respond until the other is finished speaking.