Our reading today consists of two major themes. The first theme, verses 7-11, speaks of prayer and Christ's encouragement for His disciples not to hesitate to pray. While the second part, verses 12-14, is an imperative sentence in the form of wise advice in living life. Both are still framed in the form of a series of Jesus' teachings that target various issues in life.

Speaking of the first part of our passage, perhaps many Christians are familiar with it and even remember it seriously. Who would not be comforted when reading this guidance from God. God clearly says that those who ask will receive while those who seek will find. Those who knock will find the door opened to them. The command for both is conveyed in a frame of comfort that soothes the heart. Three times the imperative verb appears in verse 7 (ask, seek, knock). This repetition serves as emphasis. Implicitly, the importance of Jesus's command is emphasized through the repetition used. Through careful reading we also get the impression that what Jesus conveyed was a command that must be carried out continuously. It is not just about perseverance in prayer, but the necessity of constant prayer. If we realize our need for God in all things, we will surely pray constantly. Perhaps it is at this point that we can truly understand that Jesus is the breath of life.

Jesus continues His teaching in verses 12-14 in a main principle summarized in one sentence: "All things whatsoever you would have men do to you, do you also to them. This is the essence of the Law and the Prophets." This instruction of Christ in many literatures is called the golden rule which frames and provides the basis for all ethical actions of a person. Simply put, if we want to be treated well by others, then treat others well too. This is the essence of all the laws in the Law or the provisions in the Prophets. This section is also the essence of Jesus' teaching regarding the comparison of the Law with what He brought.

Friends of the Bible, through the teachings about prayer and the main ethical principles, we can actually interpret it as a parallel between our spiritual practices and our daily ethical lives. A good prayer life is the foundation for good behavior. Unfortunately, we often neglect prayer and consider it a mere formality. Let us give meaning and rekindle our prayer life, while striving for good behavior and life in our daily lives.