All who call on God in true faith, earnestly from the heart, will certainly be heard, and will receive what they have asked and desired - Daily Bible Reflections February 13,2014

WHAT SAY YOU, LORD?

 

She answered him, “Sir, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” Then he said to her, “For saying that, you may go—the demon has left your daughter.”– Mark 7:28-29

 

In today’s Gospel, Jesus seems to be humiliating the Gentile woman, comparing her to a dog. Yet the woman doesn’t back down, even if Jesus seems to tell her, “Not now.” Instead she says, “OK, You got me. I’m a dog — fine. Still, I love my daughter so much that I’m willing to take whatever scrap of healing You can offer. Please!”

       She got the healing she asked for. She knew what could move the heart of God. By challenging Jesus with her faith, she positioned herself for an answered prayer.

       Have you ever thought of challenging God? Not in a rebellious, disobedient way, but in an adamant, almost resolute manner — just like the woman in the story? Maybe you’re hoping for healing. Maybe someone you love needs a desperate answer to his prayers. Maybe you need the impossible.

       I’d like to think that the woman even taught Jesus something: that a strong, desperate faith cannot be ignored by God. Next time you think God can’t meet your need, come to Him with a challenge of faith. Who knows? Maybe you’ll get an unexpected answer to your prayer! Martine De Luna (the.dainty.mom@gmail.com)

 

Reflection: “All who call on God in true faith, earnestly from the heart, will certainly be heard, and will receive what they have asked and desired.” (Martin Luther)

 

Dear Lord, grant me a desperately courageous faith.

 

St. Giles Mary of St. Joseph, pray for us.