CATHOLIC CONVERSATIONS ON THE SCRIPTURES Archdiocese of Miami - Ministry of Christian Formation

August 17, 2008 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Cycle A)

Gospel reading Matthew 15:21-28

At that time, withdrew to the region of Tyre and .* And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out, “Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is tormented by a demon.” But Jesus did not say a word in answer to her. Jesus’ disciples came and asked him, “Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us.” He said in reply, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But the woman came and did Jesus homage, saying, “Lord, help me.” He said in reply, “It is not right to take the food of the children** and throw it to the dogs.”*** She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And the woman’s daughter was healed from that hour.

*Phoenician cities. **The people of Israel. ***Jewish term of contempt for non-Jews.

Brief commentary:

The of Matthew reflects the original refusal of some Jewish-Christians to include the Gentiles in the mission of the Church. Because of the number of Jewish converts in this early community, it is not surprising that Matthew emphasized the mission of the apostles as aimed only to the children of Israel. In today’s fascinating story, Jesus breaks his tradition of ministering only to Jews and reminds us of 8:10 when he healed a Centurion’s servant. Both accounts praise the faith of non-Jews and anticipate the inclusion of the Gentiles in Jesus’ mission. It is not surprising that the Gospel ends with what is known as Jesus’ “commissioning” of the disciples to announce the Good News to all nations. This Gospel passage is all about trust, trust that God really does care for us, in spite of signs to the contrary. It also calls us to change our minds when we make quick judgments prompted by prejudices such as the ones that appear in this story.

Today’s reading offers three significant messages:

• Salvation is offered to non-Jews through faith in Jesus. This encouraged the early church’s mission to the Gentiles after Jesus’ resurrection. • Jesus praised and respected the faith, perseverance, and humility of the non-Jewish woman. • The woman is an example of faith and trust in prayer.

For our shared or personal reflection: After a brief pause for silent reflection share your answers, ideas or feelings.

1. How open am I to welcome people who are different from me?

2. How do I react when these “others” persistently ask for my help?

Suggested readings: Catechism of the Catholic Church paragraphs 439; 448; 2610.