Luke 18:1 - 23

Jesus teaches His followers about the benefits of persistence.  The persistent widow obtained justice, just as the persistent follower of Christ will obtain justice with God.  The persistent publican, convinced of his sinfulness, obtained favor wtih God while the arrogant Pharisee was only justified in his own mind.  The persistent children found a place of welcome with Jesus, while the rich young ruler, persistent to improve himself, would not be convinced to follow Jesus at the expense of abandoning his wealth.