We can learn a lot from Jesus’ interaction with a Canaanite woman whose daughter was demonized. Jesus had left Galilee because of intense opposition from the ruling religious party. He possibly left there for safety and a needed rest. However, the rest was brief because of a persistent woman.
“Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, ‘Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.'” (Matthew 15:21-22)
This is the second time in the Gospel of Matthew that we observe Gentiles experiencing the kingdom of God and its power. It points to the conclusion of the Gospel, where the gospel message is to travel across the face of the earth.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
Most Gentiles today take for granted our inclusion into the family of God. The next time you read the Book of Acts, look at the significant struggle the early Christians had with regard to inclusion. With Jesus’ inclusive spirit in mind, please work toward building bridges for an encounter with Jesus, and not hurdles.
Our Pain and God’s Silence
The story of this woman encourages us to bring our concerns to Jesus and to continue to rely on God throughout the ordeal. I often counsel people to bring their needs and worries to the Lord. Jesus repeatedly taught people to pray and not give up.
You will recall the Parable of the Widow and the Unjust Judge in Luke 18. The widow came to the judge, asking for justice for some offense she had incurred. At first, he refused, but after she continued with persistent asking, he relented. Here is Jesus’ conclusion to the parable:
“And the Lord said, ‘Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God grant justice to his chosen ones who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in helping them? I tell you, he will quickly grant justice to them. And yet, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?'” (Luke 18:6-8)
Arguing from the lesser to the greater, Jesus affirms that God, who is a perfect example of a just judge, will answer the prayer. He is so certain of an answer from God that Jesus connects persistent prayer with faith.
The Canaanite woman is another example of prayer that will not let go.
“But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, ‘Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.’ He answered, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’
But she came and knelt before him, saying, ‘Lord, help me.’ He answered, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.’ She said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.'” (Matthew 15:23-27)
Jesus’ silence may seem unkind. If we only read a portion of the interaction, that will be the case. As we read the entire account, we see Jesus using silence to reveal the extent of the woman’s faith.
Before we discuss her faith, let’s apply this to ourselves. God’s silence in the midst of our pain is very problematic. When C.S. Lewis prayed for the healing of his wife and his prayers seemed to be unanswered, he experienced a crisis of faith. Lewis worked through his doubts, but other people have left the faith altogether.
There is only one course of action when God seems silent. We must follow the example of this woman or the widow in Jesus’ parable. Suffering is the “holy ground” of our walk with God. With all compassion, I ask you to keep on praying, even in times when God seems silent.
Great Faith
There is only one place in the gospels where Jesus commends a person’s great faith. It is here in Gentile territory with a Canaanite woman.
Then Jesus answered her, “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that moment. (Matthew 15:28)
What we learn from the woman’s story is an encouragement to bring our needs to God in prayer. He welcomes our trust in His love, compassion, and grace. If God seems to be distant and silent, let’s keep on coming to Him.
YouTube Discussion
Rudy Ross, Bruce Kirby, and I discussed this passage on YouTube today.
Real Voices 