“There is a way of ordering our mental life on more than one level at once. On one level we can be thinking, discussing, seeing, calculating, and meeting all the demands of external affairs. But deep within, behind the scenes, at a profounder level, we may also be in prayer and adoration, song and worship, and a gentle receptiveness to divine breathings.” Thomas Kelley

I believe there is a great truth in what Mr. Kelley has written. We must multi-task our abilities to perform our earthly duties, while at the same time, sensitive to our Heavenly Father.

Yet, after further study, I think there is more to this verse than just a constant attitude of prayer. It seems that the greater biblical evidence shows that “pray without ceasing” refers to being persistent in our prayers to the Father.

Parables are simple stories that illustrate profound spiritual truths. This was Jesus’ favorite method of teaching. Most of the parables heavily use the similes “like” or “as.” Repeatedly we read, “The kingdom of heaven is like…” In other words, the parables most often compare the spiritual realm with something familiar in the physical realm.

However, there are a couple of parables that do not compare, but contrast. Instead of showing us what God is like, they show us what He is not like. These two parables have a direct bearing on the meaning of ceaseless prayer. Before tomorrow, can you find the two I am going to discuss? Allow me to give you a hint, read Luke 11.