Faith Daily | 3 August 2022

PRAYER of the DAY - APBA p568

Almighty God,

whose beloved Son for our sake

willingly endured the agony and shame of the cross:

give us courage and patience

to take up our cross daily and follow him;

who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,

one God, now and for ever.

Amen

GOSPEL for the Day: Matthew 15: 21-28

21Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. 22Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.” 23But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, “Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.” 24He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” 25But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.” 26He answered, “It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.” 27She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” 28Then Jesus answered her, “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed instantly.

GOSPEL REFLECTION: Helen Menzies

The heading in the NRSV is The Canaanite woman's faith.and this is indeed what this is about.

Jesus and his disciples were always on the move. It was a long walk to Tyre. I know it seemed a fair distance when did it by bus two years ago.

They must have been quite tired. This woman knew who he was and was certain he could help her. The disciples were probably puzzled why he didn't do something for her straight away so they asked him to stop her.

When he finally answers is he saying she isn't a Jew? She says even the dogs are entitled to the crumbs that fall. Finally he rewards her constant plea and complete faith in him by healing her daughter, and telling her how great is her faith. Which she knew in her heart. His compassion, love and healing are for all people everywhere.

FINAL PRAYER

Loving Heavenly Father we praise you with all our hearts that your love and compassion and healing are for all people irrespective of colour, race ,gender or creed.

May we believe this with all our heart and soul and mind and thank you from the bottom of our hearts. In Jesus’ blessed name. Amen.