Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Satisfied with Crumbs

The Canaanite woman who begs for her daughter's healing with persistence and faith stands as a model for us. (cf. Mt 15: 21-28).  She asks BIG, and evidently repeatedly, to the annoyance of the disciples who want Jesus to send her away.  She persists and eventually gets the attention of Jesus, with her simple, "Lord, help me." It was, however, her reference to the "crumbs" that turned Jesus to recognize her faith and grant her request.
So often when we pray, we expect the answer to be exactly as we have asked for and immediately after our first prayer.  It seems Jesus doesn't always work that way.  There's a reason for the delay which becomes clear in time.  Not only does he grant our wish, but also helps us deepen our faith.  We might grow discouraged when for three or four (or more--look at St. Monica) years it seems our prayer has not been heard but that is no reason to stop asking.  Perhaps the lesson is for US to be satisfied with the "crumbs" God gives us, most of the time the better part of our interaction with the God who knows us and what is best for us.  Help me Lord  to see the value in the crumbs as well as the full loaf.
Bro. Rene

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