HIS HEALING

Matthew 15:28
“O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.”
------------------------------------------------

I have a lot of unanswered prayers. But, that is unanswered based on my definition. Does God really turn a deaf ear to some of our desperate pleas for healing, finances, or protection? We all experience irritation when our best efforts to communicate result in an unsatisfactory response - or worse, no response at all. We often equate the lack of immediate tangible results with God rejecting our prayers.

The gospel of today tells us the story of the Canaanite woman who puts her trust in Jesus and looked for the gift of healing. At first, He did not answer her at all. The more Jesus ignored her, the more the woman shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me!” But strong is the faith of this woman. She is not discouraged by any of this. She comes and kneels before him, an act of worship, and prays simply, “Lord, help me!” She knows that she is not worthy to “eat the children’s food”. But she firmly believes that even the lowest of all people can eat “the master’s crumbs”, for salvation and healing is for all.

With this, she expressed her abounding and unlimited faith. And Jesus was completely won over by her faith, her confidence and her wit: “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” The miracle of faith takes place and her daughter was healed instantly.

God wants us to bring our every need to Him as He answers according to His character and will. God will never grant requests contrary to His will. God wants us to have everlasting joy -- especially when He responds, “No, it will be done in My time, not yours. When we pray without ceasing, God always responds, and every answer brings joy. God’s love is universal and no one is outside His love and mercy. What is necessary is the faith in Him and He will do the rest.

Almighty Father, thank You for Your promises which clearly tell us that those who are faithful to Your call will be given all the wisdom, knowledge and strength we need to accomplish what we are called to do. Turn our hearts away from our own selfish desires and teach us to love You only. Amen +

Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.