Read Mark 7:24-30

The last days of Jesus' earthly life are filled with significant events and teachings. During these weeks leading up to Easter, we'll travel with Jesus toward Jerusalem and his crucifixion, marveling at his determination to finally fulfill his destiny as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.

Read Mark 7:24-30

Jesus left that place and went to the vicinity of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know it; yet he could not keep his presence secret. In fact, as soon as she heard about him, a woman whose little daughter was possessed by an impure spirit came and fell at his feet. The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter.

"First let the children eat all they want," he told her, "for it is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to the dogs."

"Lord," she replied, "even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs."

Then he told her, "For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter."

She went home and found her child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.

Reflect

Jesus now moves into Gentile (non-Jewish) country, and as is somewhat typical of this time frame of his ministry, he doesn't want anyone to know about it." And yet folks knew he was near, especially this desperate mom with a sick daughter. Why do you think Jesus responded in such a seemingly harsh way to her request?

Respond

Sometimes we Western readers don't catch subtle humor in Jesus' responses. In this case, Jesus was probably goading this woman in good humor that the Jews ("the children") are to be the first recipients of God's healing power, not the Gentiles. She immediately understand what he is saying and comes back with a quick and witty response about "the children's crumbs." At this response, Jesus sees her faith and heals her daughter. Do you ever feel unworthy to ask God for something you need or want? Use this woman as your example and ask God boldly, with faith.