Genuine and lasting Faith

While he was saying these things to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. And behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, for she said to herself, “If I only touch his garment, I will be made well.” Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. And when Jesus came to the ruler's house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion,  he said, “Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose.  And the report of this went through all that district. (Matthew 9: 18-26)

The essential element common to all forms of prayer (of petition, thanksgiving, intercession) is the recognition that God is our Lord and we are His creatures. Even with the petitionary prayers of woman who had suffered blood loss and her anguished father, Jesus sees the beginning of a sincere faith and confirms it by granting their request for help. May we keep in mind one important detail: when we start having trials in our lives,  whether they last a long time or not as willed by God, sooner or later they come to an end. On the other hand, our faith in God, if genuine, throughout life’s various trials is purified, strengthened, and never comes to an end. Let us commit ourselves to never neglecting our prayers, both in moments of difficulty and peace.