What Happens When You Step Past Your Fear (Matthew 15:21-39; Mark 7:24-8:10)

A Few Thoughts to Consider

When was the last time you took a step of faith that made you extremely uncomfortable? 

Unfortunately, many Christians settle into an unhealthy rhythm of comfort. They associate awkward moments or challenging situations as evidence of Satan’s activity and not God working to expand their faith. But in Matthew and Mark, we see the story of a Canaanite woman approaching Jesus with a significant problem. She recognizes Jesus’ Messianic nature and says in Matthew 15:22, “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is severely tormented by a demon.”

Jesus’ initial response is to say nothing. This prompts his disciples to urge him to send this woman away. We can only imagine the awkwardness of this exchange. Still, despite the silence and cultural barriers, the woman remains undeterred. Finally, Jesus makes this statement in Matthew 15:26: “It isn’t right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” Alan Coe says, "Jesus was probably quoting a popular proverb, and was therefore not being as harsh as it sounds.”^[1] Still, it’s hard to soften these harsh words. Walter Wessel writes,

While Jesus probably has in mind small domesticated dogs rather than wild scavenger dogs, the statement can hardly be viewed as a compliment. These animals are not cuddly puppies being pampered like family members; rather, they are scrap eaters hanging around the garbage. The most that can be said is that Jesus softens what could have been an even more derogatory insult.^[2]

Rather than disagree with Jesus’ assessment, the woman responds in Mark 7:28 by saying, “Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” This is the only time in Mark’s gospel someone uses this title to address Jesus. “The woman acknowledges that Jesus has spoken the truth concerning the priority of salvation for the Jews, and even humbly accepts the designation ‘dogs.’ Yet she refuses to accept that her position means total exclusion from God’s banquet table.”^[3] Everyone, even someone of her background, was invited to eat.

This prompts Jesus to say in verse 28, “Woman, your faith is great. Let it be done for you as you want.” From there, her daughter was healed. In the end, Jesus marvels at her faith, declaring, “Great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you desire.” As a result, her daughter was healed instantly.

In the end, Jesus's exchange with the Canaanite woman is not harsh but tender. His words draw out her faith, revealing that even those who feel like outsiders can access the riches of his grace. In her persistence, she doesn’t argue; she simply asks for what she knows she needs. This is a picture of faith. True faith doesn’t demand. It trusts that even a small portion of God’s goodness is more than enough.