The Canaanite Woman – Aug 20 – Homily – Fr John Lawrence

 

Fr John Lawrence gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Aug 20, 2023 on the account of the Canaanite woman who persevered in her request for Jesus's help.

Jesus' interaction with the Canaanite woman is often misunderstood. His silence and seemingly harsh words are not due to prejudice, but a test of her faith. Remember, Jesus is God, and he loves all, as shown when he spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/john/4. Jesus' mission was to save all, not just the Jews. The Canaanite woman's plea, "have pity on me, Lord, Son of David," shows her faith in Jesus as the Messiah - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/2samuel/7. Despite being ignored, she persists, showcasing her deep faith and humility. Her response, "even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters," is profound and possibly prophetic. It hints at the rejection of Jesus by the Jews - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/romans/11 and the subsequent acceptance of Christ by the Gentiles. This aligns with St. Paul's teachings that the Jews' rejection led to the reconciliation of the world. The Canaanite woman's faith is rewarded when her daughter is healed. Her story reminds us that sometimes God tests our faith, not because He is indifferent, but to strengthen our relationship with Him. As St. John Chrysostom teaches, we should persist in prayer and be thankful, regardless of the outcome. Let us also seek the intercession of our Blessed Mother to obtain the graces we need. The Canaanite woman's words also hint at the prophecy that the house of God will become a house of prayer for all peoples - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/isaiah/56. In the end, all nations will praise God, and all will be children of Mary.

Ave Maria!

Mass: 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Sunday
Readings:  - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/082023.cfm
1st: isa 56:1, 6-7
Resp: psa 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8
2nd: rom 11:13-15, 29-32
Gsp: mat 15:21-28

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=783

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