‘For the one who asks receives… and to him who knocks the door will be opened.’ Jesus’ words have been a source of great consolation, for many thousands, over the centuries. They instill hope and remind us that we should be persistent in prayer, stay connected with God and seek His help.

Yet, at times, it seems that God does not listen to us. We have difficulty in accepting that God gives what is best for us and God alone knows what this is. To see more clearly, perhaps it would help to look at our lives as beautiful tapestries that God weaves with our talents and gifts. We fail to see the beauty because we view the tapestry from the reverse – our side of the picture - while God sees it in all its glory. So, too, with the responses we receive to our prayer – we fail to see their goodness because we look with mortal eyes.

And this is why we must stay steadfast in prayer, not for our material needs but for hearts that remain attuned to God.