FAITH NOT TEARS
Numbers 13:1-2,25-14:1,26-29,34-35, Ps. 106:6-7,13-14,21-23, Matthew 15:21-28
The Canaanite woman in today’s gospel text was not a Jew. She was a gentile, and so she was regarded as a “pagan” by the Jews. For the Jews, she does not merit salvation. However, Jesus demonstrated through her faith that salvation is universal. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” Salvation is available to everyone; don’t miss out.
Again, Jesus tested her faith and was moved by the depth of faith she expressed. Heb. 11:6 says, “without faith, it is impossible to please God…” So, tears do not please God; screaming and shouting during prayer would not entice God better, but faith does. Faith is the only pleasant ornament that attracts God. Where faith is applied, stress is reduced. Have faith!
Last but not least, the woman persevered. She persevered even when the disciples became her obstacles. She still did not give up when Jesus gave her the offhand remark to put her off. She knew what she wanted. Similarly, in the first reading, Caleb didn’t give in to the self defeat that the Israelites expressed over the Promise Land. They saw themselves as grasshoppers before Giants (Numbers 13:33).
Beloved, we must not underestimate our faith and our potential; we must not give up on God because of the elements of disparity and segregation among us. Some people stopped coming to church because of the attitude of a brother or sister. The disciples couldn’t stop the woman. Be salvation-driven or heaven-oriented. Jesus rewarded the Canaanite woman’s faith by restoring her daughter. If we persevere, we shall be rewarded.
LET US PRAY
Almighty Father, rekindle in us the fire of divine love. Wipe away our tears and fears and increase our faith through Jesus Christ, our Lord, amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
