When Jesus Speaks, Things Happen

When Jesus Speaks, Things Happen

Then Jesus answered her, “O, woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.’” And her daughter was healed instantly (Matthew 15:28). A quick-witted Canaanite woman from the region of Tyre and Sidon sought out Jesus because her daughter was seriously ill. Jesus remained silent, finally responding with, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs” (vs.26). Is this really the way we expect Jesus to respond? Someone I know considers this to be the “rude Jesus” story. I’m afraid that he missed the point. Many are inclined to think of Jesus as a “nice” guy, rather than a Savior who takes away the sin of the world. Note the irony here; the Canaanite woman proves to be the object lesson for the disciples. These men, Jesus’ closest, most intimate friends, are being “schooled” by a Gentile woman.

This woman knew where to place her hope: no one other than Jesus himself. The Canaanite woman utters the Kyrie (vs. 22), but Jesus’ disciples begged him to send her away. This woman, a Gentile, had nothing to lose, yet everything to gain. She was willing to subject herself to public humiliation for the sake of her daughter.

When Jesus speaks, He has something to say

Though Jesus was not with this woman’s daughter, His words had power.

This miracle proved to be a teachable moment for the disciples as well as us. God’s grace and mercy through Jesus are undeserved gifts for ALL who believe that He is God’s Son. Jesus speaks and we hear His words, “It is finished.” The ultimate payment for our sins was complete. Jesus suffered (and died) for us on the cross, God was merciless on His Son, exacting his judgement on Jesus (instead of us).

 “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:13)

©2023 Mark Lasseigne

Used by permission