Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: August 7, 2024

Date: Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  MT 15:21-28

At that time Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out, “Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is tormented by a demon.” But he did not say a word in answer to her. His disciples came and asked him, “Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us.” He said in reply, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But the woman came and did him homage, saying, “Lord, help me.” He said in reply, “It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that hour.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text for today from Matthew recounts Jesus’ encounter with a faith-filled and hope-filled Canaanite woman. This encounter marks a pivot point in the Gospel of Matthew, a point in which Jesus moves from the Messiah for Israel to the Savior for all humankind, Jew and Gentile alike, the Universal Savior. The woman’s persistence speaks volumes to us today who seek to follow Christ and who bring the needs of our world to the LORD.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Am I persistent in my prayer, in my plea to the LORD? Am I especially persistent in my prayer for others? Is my prayer full of hope, believing it is heard and will be answered?

Praying:

LORD, we are only because of You. Our lives are from You, through You, and in You. Grant us the wisdom to see that life without You does not exist. Give to us the perseverance of faith, the persistence of hope, the selflessness of authentic love so that our lives and our prayers may rise to You as our gift of thanksgiving and to bring You glory. Amen.