Wednesday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time
(Numbers 13:1-2.25-14:1.26a-19a.34-35; Matthew 15:21-28)
Today’s readings contain a definite contrast that has
significance for churchgoers. The Book
of Numbers describes the Israelites’ fear as they contemplate an invasion of
Canaan, the “Promised Land.” God's people see themselves as decidedly helpless in comparison to the nations there. They overlook, however, the presence of the
Lord among them.
In the gospel the Canaanite woman recognizes the Lord’s
anointed in her midst. She expresses
faith in Jesus as she begs him to drive away the demon tormenting her
daughter. Even when Jesus tests her mettle,
her trust remains undeterred.
As much as God appears to have little patience with the Israelites,
Jesus shows compassion on the woman and her daughter. The readings tell us that it is not enough for
us to be identified as God’s people to be afforded His mercy. Rather we must believe with all our heart that
He will help us.
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