Prayer – O Jesus, let me persevere in seeking your blessings.
Imagination – (Picture Jesus confronted by this mother.)
Context:
This story occurs in Gentile territory with a Gentile mother. It shows that the
Kingdom will break out of its Jewish beginnings and spread to the whole world.
Jesus allows the Mother to win the debate so he can free her daughter.
Gospel Text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud.)
Jesus withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. A Caananite woman presented herself, crying out, “Lord, Son of David, have pity on me! My daughter is terribly troubled by a demon.” He did not answer her. His disciples
told him, “Send her away. She is always crying out.” Jesus answered, “I was only
sent to the lost sheep of Israel.”
She came and adored him, “Lord, help me.” Jesus answered, “It is not good to give the
children’s food to the dogs.” She replied, “Do not the dogs eat from the crumbs falling
from the master’s table?”
Jesus answered, “O woman, great is your faith. Let it be done as you will.”
Her daughter was cured at that hour.
Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)
- The mother realizes her special opportunity.
- This is her moment. Jesus has come to her area.
- Jesus turns her away, saying that his ministry is meant for the Jewish people.
- She cleverly twists his words and touches the heart of Jesus.
- Even the Gentiles should share in the Jewish banquet.
- Jesus’ great powers drives out the demon from afar.
- When the woman discovers the healing, she believes in Jesus and tells her story.
That is how Mark knows it.
Affections: (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
- Jesus, You are always near. I always have my special opportunity.
- I will look for you. When I find you, I will pour out my heart.
- I have many needs! You have many powers!
- All my words touch your heart. You hear every one of them.
- You delay only so I can ask again.
- O Jesus, how great are your powers. You can change everything.
Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)
- I will see the closeness of Jesus.
- I will believe in his powers.
Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation)
Her daughter was cured at that hour.