HOMILY FOR THE 5TH THURSDAY OF ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: BE STEADFAST IN FAITH AS THE SYROPHOENICIAN WOMAN WAS
BY: Fr. Ernest Cross
A heathen mother fell at Jesus’ feet, begging Him to heal her daughter. This woman was well aware of Jesus’ reputation and, having heard that He was in Tyre, she was determined not to miss this opportunity.
Jesus initially seemed to disregard her, saying that “the children should be fed first” (referring to the Israelites), clearly implying that the house dogs (the Gentiles) would come afterward. However, the woman’s resolve for Jesus to heal her daughter remained unwavering. She responded with humility and wit, saying that the children and the house dogs could happily eat together.
ALSO RECOMMENDED: HOMILY FOR THE 5TH THURSDAY OF ORDINARY TIME
Jesus was disarmed by her response. He recognized her unwavering faith and immediately announced her daughter’s recovery. There is a story in the Jewish scriptures about Jacob wrestling with God, and in a way, this woman was wrestling with Jesus.
In our own faith journeys, we may encounter moments of grappling with God. When the Lord does not answer our prayers, our faith is tested. In such situations, we must be as steadfast in our faith as the Syrophoenician woman was.
God bless you.
FOR A SIMILAR HOMILY, CLICK HERE >>>>>