The passage in the Gospel reading follows immediately after Jesus has taught the disciples the "Lord's Prayer". The prayer begins with the disciples addressing God as "Father" and glorifying God's name on earth and in the entire establishment of His Kingdom. Then, the prayer turns to the needs of the disciples, that is, God's continual and daily protection and His sustaining support for them at all times.

The story of the midnight visitor and the sayings following it are a strong caution to persevere in prayer. God always responds to our prayers in ways that are not what we would expect or like. The examples of the sleeping friend and the Father who would give snakes and scorpions to his children drive home the point that God is neither cruel nor harsh. God wants what is best for us - the Holy Spirit.

It is no wonder that Paul is upset with the believers at Galatia. In his letter, he reflects with them on their experience of the Holy Spirit. He asks them whether they received the Spirit based on their observance of the Law or by faith in God. He chides them, 'oh foolish Galatians' and asks them if someone has 'cast an evil spell' on them. He even uses words such as "mad" and "foolish" to describe their behaviour.

Let us remember that God always wants what is best for us. This is why He has given us the Holy Spirit.