Jesus used the parable of the Friend at Midnight to teach His disciples the power of prayer.
In the story, a man has an unexpected guest drop in at midnight. With nothing to offer, he goes to his neighbour to ask for three loaves of bread. The neighbour and his family are already in bed, and the house is secured for the night. Still, the man knocks on the door. Jesus says the neighbour eventually gets up, not because of friendship but “because of your shameless audacity.” (Luke 11:8).
At first glance, it seems the neighbour is moved by the persistence of his friend. That’s part of it, but there’s more going on. In the ancient Near East, hospitality was a deeply held value. To turn away a traveller, especially at night would be to bring shame to the host, and to the entire community. There was the expectation to care for others, even inconveniently so.
It would have been shameful for the man to say, “Don’t bother me. The door is locked, and my children and I are in bed. I can’t get up and give you anything.” (Luke 11:7)
How does this relate to prayer? Jesus used this cultural backdrop to make a powerful point about prayer. Our heavenly Father pays attention to our prayers, no matter the time or need. He does not answer simply because we are persistent, but because He is a good and faithful Father. He responds not only to our audacity but for His name’s sake.
Immediately before this parable, Jesus taught His disciples to pray, “Our Father, hallowed be your name.” (Luke 11:2)
When we pray, we are calling on His character, on His name. So yes, we can pray with shameless audacity, but with more – with confidence. Our Father hears, not only because we ask boldly, but because His name is too holy to ignore the cries of His children. (Luke 11:9-13)
What do you think?
Junior Spooner is the pastor of Kinnaird Church of God.
