October 19, 2025

Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Ex 17:8-13.       2 Tim 3:14—4:2.           Lk 18:1-8

 GROW AS A DISCIPLE: PRAY, STUDY, ENGAGE, SERVE

GROW: Studying Scripture is not a side dish on the plate of practicing the faith. It is an essential component of the virtuous life, and without it, our faith will surely falter. In his second letter to Timothy, Saint Paul reminds us that the Scriptures are the inspired Word of God and they train us in righteous living and equip us for every good work. There will undoubtedly be times when we feel ill-equipped – when we are fatigued, frustrated, or concerned. It is precisely in these moments that we’re invited to go quickly to the holy Word of God! Read it, pray with it, and invite the Spirit to speak to you through it. There you will find the wisdom needed to face every circumstance.

GO EVANGELIZE: PRAYER, INVITATION, WITNESS, ACCOMPANIMENT

GO: Our faith journey was never meant to be a solitary endeavor! We see this in today’s first reading when Aaron and Hur stand beside Moses, holding his weary arms in the air as the battle rages on against the Amalekites. This image of the three men on the mountain – Moses with his arms raised high, Aaron and Hur on either side supporting them – is a powerful image of companionship in the Christian life. When you feel too weary to pray, look around – the Lord has likely given you companions who can support you precisely in the ways you need at this time. Pay attention, too, to who God might be inviting you to support in prayer. Our Gospel tells us that God always hears our prayer and calls us to be persistent in prayer. Certainly, God will “secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night.” God calls us to persist in prayer because it reveals our faith and trust in him that we constantly bring our needs before him.

REFLECT

Our readings offer helpful tools to turn to when discouragement or isolation may cloud our spiritual vision. Take some time this week to listen to the Lord’s voice in Scripture. Or, if you’re feeling weary, ask a few friends to pray with and for you. Remember that although God may seem distant, he always hears us. Be persistent in bringing your needs to him and wait with patience – surely, he will come swiftly to your aid.