The words of Jesus in Luke 11 sound wonderful, yet they often flesh out in frustration. I ask, but it’s not always given to me.

Why not, Lord?

Such a deep cry from our hearts, on which many good books have been written. While I won’t hazard a final answer, I do find Jesus’s response insightful.

After mentioning to the fathers in the crowd how they give good gifts to their children, even though they are evil (these men sat staring at Jesus), then we should know that the Father in heaven will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask.

Now I have a new set of questions. Do I fit into the evil father category? Is the point of seeking and asking to find the Holy Spirit? I want what I want, and the Holy Spirit rarely makes the list. But the Father wants to give me good gifts, way better than I can conceive. And the Holy Spirit is such a gift.

Where does this leave me in my beliefs about prayer?

As I puzzle, I glimpse a Father who wants to hand me what’s best. That likely won’t be exactly what I’m asking for, nor will it arrive in the time or manner I want. But the hands of a good and loving Father carry my gift.

I can wait.

Week twelve of reading the Bible cover to cover

Photo by Wim Hovens