Keep GoingSample

Everyone likes an underdog. Jesus does, too. In fact, in Luke 18 we get a glimpse of His fondness for the overlooked and the marginalized. But first, Jesus starts by introducing us to the opposition. He starts His parable by telling us about an unjust and ungodly judge. 

We can assume a few things about this man. It’s likely that his position gave him significant influence and power. His word had clout and demanded a response from those who heard it. Yet, we also know that he did not care about what anyone had to say about him. He was not swayed by God’s will, either. This judge was a man who lived without mercy or compassion. He cared about only one thing: himself. He certainly didn’t care about the woman who stood before him. 

Obstacles abounded for the persistent woman. Not only did she face a formidable adversary, but she also had baggage. She was a widow and a woman. It was an unfortunate combination in biblical times. It was likely that not only had her husband died but that she had experienced the death of her reputation as well. Her marital status had qualified her as respectable. Without it, who was she? Desperate and anguished, she was not even able to testify in court. She had no advocate. In a word, she was helpless. The odds were stacked against her. 

Yet, she persevered. 

CONSIDER THIS —  

• What obstacles are you facing?  
• What emotional, spiritual, and/or physical baggage are you carrying?  
• What does perseverance look like in your life right now?