Jesus is acting really weird in this story, isn’t He? When did He ever ignore someone in need—let alone insult them? He’s not like that, and the disciples knew it. They should have smelt a rat. Jesus is clearly up to something.
But no, they’re just so pleased that He’s finally behaving the way they think a good rabbi should! They miss the test.
What should they have done? Well, they could have said, “Please help her, there’s a child involved.” They could have even said, “Lord, if You do what she wants, she’ll stop bugging us and go away.” But no. “Send her away.”
And so Jesus gave up—for the moment—and went back to His usual kindness and mercy. He praises the woman and heals her child. He will heal His disciples’ stony hearts too—at the cost of His own life. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus will make them—and us!—like Him.
WE PRAY: Lord, make my heart like Yours. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* Who do you have trouble loving?
* How is Jesus helping you in this area?
* What small thing could you do to help someone you don’t naturally appreciate?
Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.