Through persistence, we can get others to give us something even when they don't want to give (Lk 11:8). How much more will we receive from God our Father, Who loved us so much that He gave us His Son! (Jn 3:16) "Is it possible that He Who did not spare His own Son but handed Him over for the sake of us all will not grant us all things besides?" (Rm 8:32)

Almost all children receive good things from their parents, despite the parents' sins (see Lk 11:11-13). "How much more will your heavenly Father give good things to anyone who asks Him!" (Mt 7:11) In fact, our heavenly Abba will give us not only good things but even the Holy Spirit, the third Person of the Trinity, God Himself. The Spirit will help us pray (Rm 8:26-27), give us supernatural gifts (1 Cor 12:4ff), guide us to all truth (Jn 16:13), make us holy (see Gal 5:22-23), and renew the face of the earth (Ps 104:30).

Because of our Father Who is Love (1 Jn 4:8, 16), Jesus' crucifixion, and the power of the Holy Spirit, it is absolutely certain that all our prayers will be answered — either as expected or in a better way. Therefore, there is "the necessity of praying always and not losing heart" (Lk 18:1).

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Richard L. Klug, April 10, 2002

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 18, 2002