This is the reading from Luke 18 in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Good News of Great Joy reading guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Luke 18 emphasizes persistence in prayer, humility in seeking God, and faithfulness in following Christ—lessons especially relevant during Advent. As we prepare to celebrate Christ’s first coming and await His return, we are reminded to:

1.    Pray Without Ceasing: Like the persistent widow, we are to bring our requests to God with confidence and faith in Him.

2.    Humble Ourselves Before God: The tax collector’s prayer shows us that God values a repentant heart over outward religious acts.

3.    Approach God Like a Child: Advent calls us to renew our childlike faith, trusting in God’s grace and provision.

4.    Follow Christ Fully: The rich ruler’s reluctance warns us against clinging to earthly possessions. Let us remember that Christ is our greatest treasure.

This Advent, may we echo the blind beggar’s cry, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” and live with gratitude for the abundant blessings we have received through Him.

You can find the written version of today's reading, complete with footnotes and commentary summaries, here.