I find today’s Gospel quite fascinating; we see a different side of Jesus. He doesn’t readily attend to the woman’s request. In fact, he is quite belittling (or even snarky), but he does engage her. Why did he do this? Was Jesus having a bad day? Was he angry?
The point is not so much that Jesus was dismissive as it is that the woman was persistent. She didn’t give up. She plead her case. Some would say she even stood up to Jesus. The short story is that Jesus was not ready to minister to those who were not Jewish. His time had not yet come. However, in both Isaiah and Paul, it is clear that God calls the Gentiles as much as the Jewish people. When the Canaanite woman presses the issue, Jesus gives in because he knows the Gospel is for everyone.
At the recent World Youth Day in Portugal, Pope Francis reiterated time and time again that the Word of God is for everyone (por todos). The Gospel is inclusive-not exclusive. Ministry is to be extended to all people, not just the ones we know or like. When people demonstrate true faith in the Lord, we should do everything to enliven that desire. We are invited to fan the flames of faith, and not to quench them out.
This week, find ways to encourage people in their spiritual journeys. Develop strategies for yourself that will draw people closer to the Lord.
Also this week, we have the mission appeal. Please be as generous as you are able.
Have a great week,
Msgr. John