Ask, Seek, Knock

Today's gospel is arguably one of my very favorites in the entire NT. It makes you pause and consider that beyond the asking, seeking and knocking bit, there is

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.

For me that's a clear reminder that God is so much more than we can think of, or imagine. I'm not referring to any philosophical formula either, I'm talking plain old if God is greater than we are in every possible way, then what must his mercy be like? The other side, of course, is what must his justice be like? Seriously, though, is there anything in today's gospel that even hints at thunderbolts of divine judgment and justice? No, there isn't.

When we turn to face God with full faith and then ask, seek, or knock, we then find a completely different reality awaits us. People say, "I did ask and nothing happened." And I usually respond, "Was it the only time you've spoken to God in sixteen years?" We think just because we believe that it should be enough. It is enough -- enough to build your faith. Then again, who bothers with actually building their faith. Catechism was enough, right?

Wrong. It doesn't matter if you are Catholic or Protestant, the majority stopped their education about God, and their own faith journey about the time they were confirmed. After that, why, Sunday school is for children, not me. And what that really means is, "I think it's all a nice fairy tale but I'm afraid to admit that even to myself."

Even though I typed that in the voice of someone else, I have to claim that there are time I'm tempted by the same thought. So why doesn't it drag me down? Because I spend time on building my weak faith, and saying to God, "I believe, help my unbelief."

It is not my intention to drag down a wonderful gospel reading with unbelief, but too often I've heard people quote this and say it did not work for them. Well, it's not a magic formula. And, a relationship with God is a relationship, not a short-order diner! If the only time you speak to God is to say, "Hey, pay my bills," then why should God pay any attention to you? Does that mean God doesn't love you? No, it means you don't love God and that is clear to him.

Life is not all about God doing things for us, we have to do some things for God as well, such as pray, bother to read the scriptures, go to Mass or Church, make an effort to show that "yes, I take this seriously." Treat each other as we want to be treated.

And what a coincidence, that happens to be the end of today's gospel reading!

Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.
This is the law and the prophets.