GOD’S WORD FOR THE DAY (based on Catholic Liturgical Readings)
DATE: 3RD AUGUST 2016
WEDNESDAY OF THE 18TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
1ST READING: Jeremiah 31:1-7
PSALM: Jeremiah 31:10, 11-13
GOSPEL: Matthew 15:21-28
THEME: WOMAN, GREAT IS YOUR FAITH!
The expression “If wishes were horses beggars would ride” is a traditional English nursey rhyme originating from the 16th century. Basically, it means that if mere wishing could make things happen, then even the most destitute people would have everything they wanted. In other words, simply having a desire is not enough; action is required.
We all have dreams and aspirations but not all of us have what it takes to make those dreams become a reality. A woman, a non-Jew, in our Gospel text for today, reveals to us the path that leads to the actualization of one’s dream.
A Canaanite woman, we are told, expressed her desire to Jesus saying, “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon” (Mat 15:22). Apparently, there was no response from the Lord. This made the disciples to say, “Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us” (Mat 15:23). Next, her desire took on the character of faith, expressed through her persistence, gesture (kneeling before the Lord) and utterance (“Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table”). This moved Jesus to grant her request – “Woman, you have great faith. Let your desire be granted” (Mat 15:28). Take note, Jesus did not say, “Woman you have great desire”. He said, “Woman you have great faith.” On account of her faith, we are told that from that moment her daughter was well again.
Jesus cannot be pushed around but if you have faith, you can “move” him to favour you. Faith is trusting in the Lord’s ability in the face of your inability. Faith is persevering in prayer even if it appears the Lord is delaying or unresponsive to a request. When you have prayed and yet nothing seems to work, remember the Canaanite woman. It pays to persevere.
Lord Jesus, I turn to you in prayer. I kneel before you and with faith, humbly submit this request of mine to your heart of mercy…(name the request)…No one ever comes to you, trusting wholeheartedly and is left unaided, for there is nothing too difficult for you. Favour me and make me a living testimony. Amen.
Fr. Andrews Obeng, SVD
DIVINE WORD MISSIONARIES
BIBLICAL PASTORAL MINISTRY
(Ghana Province)