When we read that God wanted the people to realize “what it means to oppose me,” it may trouble us (Numbers 14:34). Will we be punished for our wrongdoing? Jesus’ words to Saint Faustina can help us here: “Souls that make an appeal to My mercy delight Me. To such souls I grant even more graces than they ask. I cannot punish even the greatest sinner if he makes an appeal to My compassion, but on the contrary, I justify him in My unfathomable and inscrutable mercy.” 

In today’s Gospel reading, the Canaanite woman asks Jesus for healing but He casts her request aside. She persists, however, and it seems she knows Jesus loves her despite His gruff reply. She then expresses these humble and sincere words: “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters” (Matthew 15:27). She sees herself as an outcast, lowly and unworthy. In fact, the Canaanites have a history of being defeated by the Jews and of God taking their land. But instead of bitterness, she seeks the “scraps” of the grace that Jesus brings into the world. Our Lord admires this so much that He praises her as having great faith and the Gospel memorializes her for it.

Finally, today’s Responsorial Psalm can be transformed into our own prayer of repentance and hope for mercy.

“Forgive me, O Lord, for I have sinned. I have done wrong. I have forgotten your wonders and great works. I did not wait for your counsel. I gave way to my own cravings and forgot the many times you saved me. Remember me, O Lord, as you look with love and mercy on your Holy Church. Amen.”

Reflection Questions

• Have you feared the difficulty of recovery and wanted to give up? How did you overcome these fears and doubts and remain on the path of life?
• In what ways has God helped you make amends for your failings?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Numbers 13:1-2, 25–14:1, 26a-29a, 34-35
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 106:6-7ab, 13-14, 21-22, 23
Gospel: Matthew 15: 21-28

Reflection by Bill B.