March 25, 2023: Great Faith!

"Then Jesus answered her, "O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire." And her daughter was healed instantly." (Matthew 15:28, ESV)

A Canaanite woman comes to Jesus and begs Him to come and heal her demon-possessed daughter. The Canaanites were gentiles and long-time enemies of God and God's people. If anyone was unworthy of receiving from Jesus, it could be said that she was. But Jesus is not moved by one's past, one's race, or one's works. He is moved by faith. And this woman's faith moves Him!

Jesus tries to deflect this woman's appeal to Him. Jesus ignores her. Jesus says that He is not sent to her people. Jesus finally appears to insult her by saying, "I can't give the children's food to the dogs." 

The woman pushes back with her faith! She cries out for mercy! She calls Him Lord three times! She identifies Him: Son of David! And she releases her faith: "Even dogs get the crumbs of Master's table." With great faith, a "little bit" of God goes a long way! Jesus replies:  "O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire." And her daughter was healed instantly." (Matthew 15:28, ESV)

Great faith comes from trusting in a Great God! Great faith comes by not stopping when the answer seems delayed. Great faith comes when you know who you are talking to!