21Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. 22A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came to him, crying out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is demon-possessed and suffering terribly.”
23Jesus did not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.”
24He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.”
25The woman came and knelt before him. “Lord, help me!” she said.
26He replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.”
27“Yes it is, Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.”
28Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment. (Matthew 15:21-28)
Thoughts: Jesus went to the region of the Gentiles. This was highly unusual for a Jewish leader. It was also unusual for a gentile lady to believe that Jesus could help her and her daughter. She called Him Lord, and put her faith in His ability to help her daughter. Jesus is the Messiah of Israel, but He is also the Messiah of the world. While He was sent to the lost sheep of Israel, the woman knew His power was not limited. Her great faith insured her prayer was answered. She broke through to God's merciful heart. We too break through when we ask God continually in humility and mercy for help. God is a merciful God and He longs to be merciful to us - if we will but call on His mercy in humility.
Prayer: Lord, have mercy on me and hear my prayers.
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