Today’s first reading from Esther (EST C:12, 14-16, 23-25) talks about Queen Esther laying prostrate on the ground begging God to save her from her enemies. Without reading the passages before this reading I don’t know exactly what the situation is, but it seems like she has waited for the last minute and as a last resort she has turned to prayer. I know this feeling. Normally, my first reaction is to try to solve issues myself. To take control. When that doesn’t work then maybe I will pray.
The question is why do I do it? I think it is a control thing. That I want to do it myself. I do know God cares about me and will lead me in the right direction. He reminds me in the Gospel today (MT 7:7-12) by saying “If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him.” He is reminding me to ask Him for what I need.
Recognition. I am sitting here thinking, do I always recognize what God does do for me when I do ask? I don’t think I do, at least not always. I think it takes special awareness and attention to see God’s gifts to you. Sometimes it is not clear. What I mean is, I can think of a time when I asked for something and I got pretty close to what I asked for but it had some extenuating circumstances. Was that God? I am going with yes. I think to see God’s work in your life most of the time you have to read into what you get. You have to see things from a broader perspective and accept that God has a plan where you will get what’s best for you.
I don’t always turn to God first. When I am distracted by my life’s busy pace it’s hard to remember to do but, I will continue to practice to get better.
GVW4U 