An Acceptance of Life -Romans 11:15
A Reflection for the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Brent Smith, Director of Adult Faith Formation & Evangelization
Goldfish were the exclusive pets of my childhood. Since those little sea creatures were sometimes no bigger than a lumberjack’s thumb, my parents never thought to say, “Don’t try feeding the fish any macaroni.” Oblivious to the possibility of doing otherwise, I kept my food to myself. In the Gospel this Sunday, the Canaanite (aka, non-Jewish polytheist) woman is called a little dog. By no means oblivious to the genuine need for mercy, Jesus delays accepting her request on her daughter’s behalf.
Although demonic possession was a burden the Savior of Humanity could easily remove, Jesus is looking to do more than restore health. Even as someone who neglected to practice Judaism, the Canaanite had knowledge of the noble lineage of the Savior, “Lord, Son of David!” (Mt 15:22). As a way of learning more about the woman’s acceptance of his way of reconciliation – which requires the surrender of one’s whole life to him – Jesus states that the people of his own religion take priority. He wished to enlighten as many followers of the Mosaic Law of his anointed identity, trusting that his disciples would go far and wide afterwards.
By her determination, the Canaanite succeeds in getting Jesus to take a brief detour from the core of his mission. In our own lives, who are we slow to be inconvenienced by? What would it mean for us to spare a few minutes to extend compassion, prayer, and maybe a word about Christ’s all encompassing mercy?
May the nations be glad and sing for joy, because you [Lord God] judge the people with justice and guide every nation on earth. (Ps. 67:4 ~ Good News Translation)
