The screech of a dial-up modem, a full minute of waiting to connect, pages loading at a crawl, a quarter century ago waiting was simply normal; today artificial intelligence shortens an article for us in seconds. Yet there is no app for forgiveness, for a loved one’s recovery, or for the end of a war, and waiting for God to act is hardest of all. This sermon returns to Jesus’ surprising parable of the unjust judge and the persistent widow (Luke 18), a story that at first glance sounds anything but comforting. Listen to how Jesus turns discouragement into persistent prayer that becomes a way of life.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Jesus tells the parable of the unjust judge and the widow right after teaching about His second coming (Luke 18:1-8). How does that context change the way you understand this story?
- The widow had no right to stand before the court on her own and no money for a bribe, and the judge gives in only to get some peace. How is God completely different from this judge, and what is this comparison meant to free us from?
- The speaker admits that in darker moods he sometimes thinks of God as an unjust judge who stays silent. In what situations do similar thoughts come up for you, and what helps you face them?
- Jesus ends with a question: when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth? What does a faith that keeps waiting look like today in a world where we want everything instantly?
- The sermon describes prayer as a way of life and an attitude of expectant engagement, not an add-on stuck onto our day. How can you practically combine doing what God puts in front of you with patiently waiting for His justice?
- When marathon runners hit the wall, they picture the finish line. What are you waiting for most right now, and how could the prayer "Maranatha, come, Lord Jesus" give you strength this week not to lose heart?
