The Persisting Woman

"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."

(from Matthew 15:21-28)

My hearing aids make sounds louder, but they aren't perfect. 

That's why I have to say "What?" frequently and why Elaine asks, "Did you hear what I said?"

Other times Elaine raises the volume of her voice several decibels and I reply, "well, you didn't need to yell!"

Folks who don't understand how hearing aids work, wonder why I give strange answers to questions such as, "would you like water or coffee?" and I respond, "yes".

The Canaanite woman was shouting at Jesus, "Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David”,  since she knows of Jesus' power and willingness to show mercy on all who approach.

She seeks a personal mercy because her daughter is tormented by a demon and she knows that what impacts her child, affects her as mother.

In her culture, women’s words are usually met with silence, interruption or, disrespect by men, including the disciples who consider her an annoyance.

The Canaanite woman clearly stated her need, shows respect for Jesus calling him "Lord", and identifies herself as a distant relative, "Son of David".

Yet Jesus ignores her.

She persisted! 

She didn’t go away; she won’t be dismissed! 

She shouts louder!

CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW!!!

Finally, recognizing cultural differences, she says, Now listen here, Jesus, it's not fair to feed the dogs with the children's food.

Jesus hears the Canaanite woman and simply replies, “Let it be done for you as you wish"

and heals her daughter.

Jesus declares that her self-determination, which he calls faith, has led to the healing.

This is a story of self-determination leading to change leading to hope.

 

Jesus hears us, through persistence, no matter the shouting or turmoil around us, providing hope when life seems hopeless.

Think about it: When have you experienced a need to persist so Jesus hears? How did that lead to change?