Reflection on the Daily Gospel - (Mt 15, 21-28)
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 Jesus did not say a word in answer to her. Jesus’ 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 Jesus 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 the woman’s daughter was healed from that hour.” (Mt 15: 21-28)
Man's encounter with God always takes place within the framework of a specific history. It is an individual story marked with successes, but also with dramas, moments of joy and sadness. It is also a social story with its tendencies, currents, stereotypes and prejudices.
A Canaanite woman for the Israelites was a pagan who should not even be spoken to. To reach Jesus, she must overcome the socio-cultural barrier of separation. It is for her a test of character, and perhaps even more a test of spirit. Will he be able to believe that he can achieve the desired goal - the health of her daughter? Faith, on the other hand, is the guarantee of those goods which we expect, the evidence of those things which we do not see (cf. Hebrews 11: 1). Conditions are important, but even more important is the heart. This is how Abraham once believed and became the father of all believers. Also, this Canaanite woman.
And I? Can I say I have faith like Abraham? Socially I belong to the group of baptized, but do I believe?
Faith, if not sustained by hope, can weaken. The Canaanite woman places her trust and hope in Jesus, whom she calls Lord, the Son of David. Thus, she recognizes in Jesus the "hope of Israel", the expected Messiah. Like faith, her hope will also be put to the test. Jesus' disciples, in order to have peace at last, encourage the Master to act and "settle" the case of this woman. Jesus, however, persists. He is the promised Messiah, but his mission goes first to the house of Israel. The woman is persistent and does not get discouraged.
We get discouraged so easily. Sometimes we are even afraid to make explicit requests. That is why we do not ask in many cases, because we do not expect. What am I afraid to ask Jesus for?
The Canaanite woman is tested on one more delicate point - self-worth. Jesus, put final difficulty, refers to the common belief of Israelites seeing Gentiles as "unfaithful dogs." This term, which stings acutely the self-love, reveals the existence in a woman another love that is greater than her own. It is love for her own child. Even the crumbs from the Lord's table are enough to help her daughter.
A love that endures everything wins. Jesus cannot resist such a heart. What is my faith, hope and love?
Until Tomorrow
fr. george