Children and dogs
1 Kings 11:4–13; Psalm 106; Mark 7:24–30
The metaphor of children and dogs calls us to have respect for all human beings. Regardless of our status, we must appreciate those around us. Children and dogs in this gospel were used to depict the Jews and the Gentiles of old. Children are usually scared of dogs; they don’t like to see them. Again, children have more right than dogs in a household. Both analogies explains how it was with Jews and gentiles. However, the faith of a Syrophoenician woman who asked Jesus to deliver her daughter broke this barrier.
The woman’s status as a gentile and foreigner would have rendered her severely marginalized compared to the Jews, who were the rightful sons. But Jesus granted her request, a perfect illustration that his mission is not limited to the Jews alone. Jesus endeavors to destroy all such distinctions.
However, elements of such distinction still exist in the church today, with particular reference to tribalism and the rich class. While we cannot make everybody wealthy, we can maintain the general attitude of Jesus—his respect for all human beings with no distinctions of class or belief.
The first reading tells us that the Lord became angry with Solomon because his heart had turned away from the Lord. In all his wisdom, Solomon wandered far from the Lord. We know too much, yet we are not docile to the examples of Christ. We have all the godly wisdom yet are hostile to ourselves. For these and many other reasons, many of us have wandered far away from God.
Let us pray.
Lord, give us that unity, that absorption, and that resolution to put away anything that hinders. Let our thoughts, our actions, and our intentions be unified to glorify you through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
