Fancy being praised by Jesus for your 'great faith'.
Faith has many components and today's gospel highlights two of them.
First, there is 'perseverance', what my grandfather used to call 'stickability' or not giving up at the least discouragement. The Canaanite woman knew what she wanted from Jesus and she wasn't easily put off by his initial silence nor by his apparent rejection.
Secondly, faith is strengthened by the support of others 'the disciples pleaded with Jesus on her behalf' though not from the highest of motives - possibly just to shut her up.
In the Catholic calendar today we recall the dedication of the basilica of S Mary Major in Rome following she was declared 'mother of God' at the Council of Ephesus in 431. In the Anglican calendar we recall Oswald's contribution to the conversion of northern England as king companion of Aidan after his baptism and Christian formation by the monks of Columba on Iona.
He was killed in battle in 642 and celebrated as a Christian martyr.
When we pray to the Lord we can show great faith by our reliance on the help of Mary and the saints, so let's do that.
In the power of the Spirit and in union with Christ, let us pray to the Father:
Lord, teach us how to pray and grant us perseverance -
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Lord, bless your church and give faithfulness in witness to gospel truth and values -
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Lord, save mankind an deliver the world from warfare and injustice -
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Lord, heal the sick in body, mind and spirit both at home and in hospital -
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Lord, grant to the departed your forgiveness, and peace -
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
These prayers we unite with those of Mary, mother of God, and with all the saints -
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Merciful Father,
accept these prayers,
for the sake of your Son,
our Saviour Jesus Christ.
Amen.
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