Matthew 15:21-28
The Canaanites’ actions were akin to modern Islamic claims to Israel’s land, although Islam would not arise for another six Hundred years. So it took more than a little courage for the woman to ask anything of a Jew. Of course, Jesus knew he would heal the woman’s daughter, but he wanted the woman to understand what she was asking and realize the depth of her own faith—against all odds. Race never was the issue, as we saw earlier in the case of a Roman officer. All that mattered was her genuine commitment to Jesus.
A Woman’s Faith
(See also Mark 7:24-30)
Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and was crying, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely oppressed by a demon.” But Jesus did not say a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying out after us.”
Jesus said, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
The woman came closer. Then she knelt down before him, saying, “Lord, help me.”
Jesus replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” Lord, that’s true,” the woman said, “even dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.”
Then Jesus answered, “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed instantly.
Read The Bible In
One Year: Eze. 15-18
Plus Daily Chapter: Acts 9
