O the faith of women!

Matthew 15.21-28

The Canaanite Woman’s Faith

Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, ‘Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon.’ But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, ‘Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us.’ He answered, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’ But she came and knelt before him, saying, ‘Lord, help me.’ He answered, ‘It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.’ 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.


In my life of spiritual and religious development, women have most often been my teachers and guides. Starting with my Italian grandmother who tolled her beads over and over and whose life was light and grace to all she met. I can't count the number of wise and righteous nuns who gifted me with their wisdom. Lately, priests of the Episcopal Church such as Rev. Elizabeth Keaton, and Presiding Bishop, The Most Reverend Katherine Jefferts Schori have continued as my instructors in faith and the quest for justice for all peoples. I can but echo the words and sentiment of Psalm 68:11 "The Lord giveth the word: the women that publish the tidings are a great host." (English Revised Version)

In today's gospel, the Canaanite woman astounds with the surety and boldness of her faith. Lets face it, Jesus calls her a dog (a common term for Gentiles in Jesus' day), and she persists in her request for Jesus to heal her daughter. After being dealt this insult, she comes back with such an eloquent reply, that Jesus is surprised and pays her a great compliment "Woman, great is your faith!" Best of all, her persistence is rewarded and her daughter is healed.

While much can and has been said about the rewards of persistence in faith and prayer this story exemplifies, I simply want to bask in this woman's amazing faith and courage. Her example will no doubt speak more eloquently than any preacher who sermonizes this text today. Her example leaves me without words except to say "Let us praise amazing women!"