In the Gospel today, the Canaanite woman sought Jesus’ help for her demon-possessed daughter. Most probably, she had heard of the miracles of Jesus. As a mother, she could not bear to see her child suffer. Anything to ease her daughter’s situation was most welcome. Jesus saw her determination. At first, Jesus did not answer the pleading of the woman. Was He thinking it over? Then He told her, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the nation of Israel... It is not right to take the bread from the children and throw it to the little dogs.” Those were harsh words, somewhat unexpected from Jesus. Yet, the woman was not perturbed. She even had the courage to say to Jesus, “It is true, sir, but even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their master’s table.” That did it for Jesus. He gave her her wish. This was not the first time Jesus gave in to a woman. The first time was to His mother at the wedding at Cana. Though it was not yet time for Him to reveal Himself, the call to love prevailed due to the urgency of the situation. We can also understand Jesus’ teaching on the Sabbath in this context. He respects the law but love of neighbor comes first. He respects His hour, but love of the needy comes first anytime. During my work exposure as a seminarian, I always saw this beggar on a street corner near my workplace. One time, she got the courage to approach me and beg for some money. I told her that I only had enough for my fare. But she saw my packed lunch and asked me to share it with her, saying it would be a lot of help to her. Moved with pity, I gave her my lunch. And every day since then, I would give my lunch to her. One day, she was no longer in the corner. No one knew what had happened to her. I just felt consoled that I was of help to her somehow. That incident taught me to grab the opportunity to do good whenever it presents itself. Laws and rules have their purposes and functions. But loving is always opportune. Fr. Benny Tuazon REFLECTION QUESTION: When was the last time you did something good for a stranger? Lord Jesus, help me to recognize You in every person I encounter. Remind me always that love should motivate my every act and thought.
Posted on: Wed, 07 Aug 2013 02:14:56 +0000
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