As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. 29 But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them. (NIV)

Be encouraged. The living Jesus responds to our pleas. He hears our requests. He regularly does what we ask, even though it may initially appear to be unlikely that He will. May we, then, as Jesus Himself taught, ”…always pray and not give up” (Luke 18:1).

”The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16)

‘Those that have experienced the pleasure and profit of communion with Christ cannot but covet more of his company, and beg of him, not only to walk with them all day, but to abide with them at night. Christ yielded to their importunity: He went in, to tarry with them. He has promised that if any man open the door, to bid him welcome, he will come in to him, Rev.iii.20′ Matthew Henry.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, in those situations where it looks like you mean to ‘go farther‘, give me the faith to go on asking, seeking, knocking. Thank you that you do respond to the heartfelt please of your people, and you always give just what is right.