Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.” But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, “Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.” He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.” He answered, “It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” Then Jesus answered her, “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed instantly. (Matthew 15:21-28, NRSV)
This passage has always made me stop and think. It is out of the ordinary from what we expect and usually see from Jesus.
The woman was a Canaanite and not a part of the house of Israel, and Jesus says He came only for the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
But she was persistent in her asking Jesus to help her daughter. She knew that Jesus could heal her daughter and that even a morsel of His food would be enough to make her well. Even those who aren’t “worthy” get the same as those who are, just differently.
Because of her persistence and her understanding, she is commended and her daughter healed.
Have her faith, knowing that Jesus is always with us. And be persistent in your daily praying, knowing that God is always listening.
aSacredRebel 