Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came to him, crying out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is demon-possessed and suffering terribly.” Jesus did not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.” He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.” The woman came and knelt before him. “Lord, help me!” she said. He replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” “Yes it is, Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment.
—Matthew 15:21-28

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How Great is My Faith?
By Jennifer Kane

I want to be like the Canaanite woman,
Known above all for a faith that’s profound.
A faith so great it outshines every virtue,
Humble, patient, persevering, and kind.

Yes, I desire humility,
Yes, I seek patience,
Yes, I strive for perseverance,
Yes, I cherish my loved ones deeply.

But Jesus didn’t commend her humility,
Nor her patience, nor her care—
He praised her faith alone.

I want my faith to be unlikely,
Remarkable in its steadfastness.
Her faith was great because she worshiped,
Even before an answer came.

Let my faith be forged in trials,
Strengthened by the seeming silence of Jesus.
I want my faith to be clever,
To take what seems an insult
And turn it into an open door.

Let my faith focus on the real,
On the pressing needs right before me.
Many believe in everything
But neglect the needs at hand.

I want my faith to endure,
Relentless, unyielding, unbreakable.
I will not stop until Jesus answers,
Until my soul is satisfied.

I want my faith to move Jesus,
Not just to fulfill my requests,
But to surpass them,
Rewarding the greatness of my faith.

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Scripture: Matthew 15:21-28

In this passage, we witness the profound faith of a Canaanite woman. Her daughter was demon-possessed, and despite being an outsider to the Jewish community, she approached Jesus with a plea for help. Initially, Jesus responded in a way that seemed dismissive, testing her faith. Yet, she persisted with humility and unwavering belief in His power.

Her response, “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table,” shows her understanding of Jesus’ mission and her faith that even the smallest touch of His grace could bring healing. Jesus acknowledges her great faith and grants her request, healing her daughter. Jesus doesn’t use the word ‘dog’ as a typical jew at the time would use it (derogetory) He uses a different word that means ‘dog’ as a very adorable family pet that is well loved.

The woman’s persistence highlights the importance of unwavering faith, even when faced with silence or challenges. Her humble approach, acknowledging her position yet still seeking Jesus’ mercy, teaches us the attitude we should have when coming to God. This story shows that Jesus’ compassion and healing are available to all, regardless of their background.

Reflect on your own faith. Are you persistent in prayer, even when answers seem delayed? Do you trust in God’s timing and His will? Like the Canaanite woman, approach God with humility, acknowledging your dependence on His grace. Remember that God’s love and compassion extend to everyone. Trust that He hears your prayers and is faithful.

Today and for the rest of the week, choose one area where you need to trust God more fully. Commit to praying persistently about it, trusting in His power and timing, and watch how He works in your life.

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Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless compassion and love. Strengthen my faith, especially in times of silence or trial. Help me to persist in seeking You, trusting in Your timing and will. May my faith be as great as the Canaanite woman’s, and may I always approach You with humility and trust. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

January 15 2025