Great Is Your Faith

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.” 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.” Then Jesus answered her, “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed instantly. Matthew 15:21-28

Gracious Creator, we are born of the spirit

all of us from every nation and tribal group

are part of your living presence here

yet too many are left out and marginalized.

One mother was brave to confront the walls

the narrow minded way we exclude others

the tunnel vision we have about strangers

and the fears the keep us from welcoming.

Your disciples tried to protect you from her

but she persisted and answered your push back

you knew her mother's heart and ached

to bring healing and blessing to the child.

Help us Lord to bring down the barriers

that we set up to protect our fearful hearts

give us your heart of compassion and love

so that your healing might cover our earth. Amen.