Craving Crumbs
Opening Prayer
Lord God, I honor You with my heart and soul today. Be with me now, I pray.
Read Mark 7:24-30
[24] Jesus left that place and went to the vicinity of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know it; yet he could not keep his presence secret. [25] In fact, as soon as she heard about him, a woman whose little daughter was possessed by an evil spirit came and fell at his feet. [26] The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter. [27] “First let the children eat all they want,” he told her, “for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to their dogs.” [28] “Yes, Lord,” she replied, “but even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” [29] Then he told her, “For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter.” [30] She went home and found her child lying on the bed, and the demon gone. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
What miracle did Jesus perform for this woman?This difficult passage appears to contradict so much of what we know about Jesus. Did he really call this woman a dog? Was he actually reluctant to help her?
The “children” Jesus refers to here are the children of Israel. Jesus is saying that the good news of the Kingdom of God must first be taken to the Jews. Earlier, Jesus had sent his disciples out to preach and heal with the instruction that they “go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matt. 10:6). His priority was to go to his own people, who were awaiting a Messiah.
However, this woman’s faith and audacity impress Jesus. He also sees her unwavering belief that he can heal her, if he chooses. She refuses to accept his answer because she is convinced that he represents the little girl’s only chance of healing.
On what grounds do we ask for Jesus’ help in the situations we face? Is it on the basis of who we are, or of the things we have done for him? No, we come to him certain of two things. First, that he is able to do all things; and second, that his loving character is such that he actually wants to do what is best for us.
Apply
Ask Jesus for help in any difficult or impossible situations you face. Trust that he wants what is best for you.
Closing prayer
Lord Jesus, I know that You always want the best for me. Help me to really trust that.
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