Matthew 15 ( 10-20) , 21-28 v 27 “ She replied, “That’s true, Lord, but even dogs are allowed to eat the scraps that fall beneath their masters feet.”
A gentile women came to Jesus pleading for her daughter who was possessed by a demon. Jesus ignored her completely. Then his disciples asked Him to tell her to go away as she was bothering them. Jesus replied to the women I was sent only to help God’s lost sheep- the people of Israel.” But she came again and worshiped Him, saying Lord help me! Jesus replied, “It isn’t right to take food from the children and give it to the dogs”. “She replied, “That’s true, Lord, but even dogs are allowed to eat the scraps that fall beneath their masters’ feet.” Jesus replied your faith is great. Your request is granted.
In the passage that is included here in brackets Jesus is teaching about the Jewish rules of eating. He says, “It is not what goes into your mouth that defiles you: you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.” His disciples then said that Jesus offended the Pharisees, the teachers of the law. He replies, that things that come from the heart show what you believe in and eating with unwashed hands will never defile you. So, initially He ignores the gentile women. The story continues the theme of the importance of what comes out of your mouth. Jesus realizes that this woman a gentile can believe in Him as the women worships Him. He says why should He who has come to save the children of Israel, take food, His teachings, from them and feed them to dogs, those that are below the table. The women speaks honestly, “She replied, “That’s true, Lord, but even dogs are allowed to eat the scraps that fall beneath their masters’ feet.” Jesus responded to the great faith this woman had and her request was granted.
Today we can learn that even Jesus changed His ministry as he interacted with people He met. He listened and responded to a genuine plea for help from a believer whatever her socioeconomic status.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for sending your Son, Jesus to be the savior for all who believe. Help us to understand more fully your words and the path you want us to take in your name. Amen.
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