Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Faith unlocks the door

The Gospel passage today is quite baffling. Jesus seems to be almost arrogant as he appears to rebuff the Canaanite woman who begs for his help. But in his love for the woman he is teasing out of her a strong profession of faith - a faith so persistent that it touches his heart and immediately her daughter is delivered from the demons that tormented her.

At that time Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out, “Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is tormented by a demon.” But he did not say a word in answer to her. His disciples came and asked him,“Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us.” He said in reply,“ I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But the woman came and did him homage, saying, “Lord, help me.” He said in reply,“ It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” Then Jesus said to her in reply,“ O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that hour. (Mt. 15:21-28)

In Israel, those outside the Jewish faith were considered "dogs". But not so in Jesus' eyes. This humble woman was a daughter of the Father and Jesus' heart with moved with pity for her.

Is our faith strong enough to move Jesus' heart? Jesus loves it when we trust in Him. Remember the prayer: "Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place my trust in you." As life confronts us with challenges, let us ask the Father for the grace of a deeper faith so that as we pray, we can move the heart of his Son - just as the Canaanite woman did.

1 comment:

ProudCatholic said...

This is a beautiful reflection and came at an extremely important time when I am asking the Lord for something for someone else that is greatly needed. Thank you and God bless!