“Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.”

Saturday, August 16, 2014

Scripture

“Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.” (Matthew 15:22)

Reflection

The woman appealing to Jesus is a Cannanite, a foreigner. The disciples want Jesus to get rid of her, and even Jesus himself spurns her: “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” [translation: “to Jews only”]. When she persists, Jesus insults her: “It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.” We can hardly believe our ears!

The woman seems to acknowledge and even embrace the insult: “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” Jesus is astonished and exclaims, “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.”

It seems crumbs from the Lord’s table are enough! I’m reminded of the story of the “Feeding of the 5000,” in which all the broken pieces—the crumbs—are gathered up and fill twelve baskets.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, Even the crumbs that fall from your table are sufficient for us. Give us food from your table always. Amen.