Scraps

~~~Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time~~~

~~~Isaiah 56:1, 6-7~~~ Psalm 67 ~~~ 

~~~ Romans 11:13-15, 29-32 ~~~ Matthew 15:21-28 ~~~

Jesus believes that what comes from your mouth

 originates first in the heart.

(Matthew 15:18)

A Canaanite woman approaches Jesus knowing

 that she would most likely be turned away 

or at least ignored.

But still she calls out to Jesus.

The apostles wanted her calls

 to fall on deaf ears, but Jesus clearly hears her. 

“Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! 

My daughter is tormented by a demon.”

This brave woman came to encounter Jesus on a personal level.

This desperate woman was not seeking favor for herself.

This strong woman sought healing for her child, 

whom she loved dearly.

Imagine how surprised she was when Jesus initially tells her "No".

Has Jesus ever given you a similar answer?

Not only does Jesus deny her request

he compares her to the dogs.

How demeaning and humiliating

 to be one with the dogs.

This woman exhibited greater faith in Jesus

than did his own disciples.

She came alone to plead her case

 for the healing of her daughter.

She wasted no time being afraid or feeling unworthy.

She refused to give up...

she believed that even the scraps,

whatever they would look like,

would be more than enough

 to heal her daughter.

Oh, that we should have such faith!

Faith as small as a mustard seed 

can indeed move mountains.

Would you pass the faith test?

Pray for a deeper faith...

a faith capable of overcoming

insurmountable obstacles.

We know who Jesus is...

Do you believe he can do all things?

Soon after this encounter Jesus 

takes a few 'scraps'

and feeds the crowd of thousands.

~~~Peace~~~

Dear Lord, please increase our Faith.

Amen.