Today, we have one of the most amazing stories in the four Gospels: the exchange between Jesus and the Syrophoenician woman.

It appears that Jesus, exhausted from so many people seeking healing, wanted some “downtime “with his friends, away from the crowds. But a Greek woman “intrudes” upon his peaceful break and falls at his feet, seeking healing for her daughter.

She checks so many boxes: a foreigner (a descendant of a historic “enemy”), a Gentile, not with her husband or male relative, a daughter possessed, a woman, talking to a strange man.

Using a metaphor, Jesus insinuates she’s a “dog.” Undaunted, this woman stands her ground and cleverly responds to this insult with her own metaphor, for she is fierce in her love for her daughter.

What a strong woman she was. She does not cower in the face of Jesus’ insult. Did she think he was playing games with her? Or did she catch a twinkle in his eye — a kind of test? Or did she — like thousands upon thousands of women throughout the centuries — take on a man acting as men often act? She will not be turned away. Her faith is strong.

What’s the takeaway today for us Christ-followers? Who checks off for me certain boxes that I might reflexively call them a “dog,” or worse? Is it not too often our response in an unguarded, tired, frustrated, or “justifiably” angry moment? People of color, immigrants looking for safety and work, people different from us, are daily being scapegoated, denigrated, lied about, and further victimized by politicians, fellow Americans, and even religious leaders. This goes against our Catholic values, wrote Pope Leo XIV.

In the end, what does Jesus do? He treats this “outcast” with respect and dignity. He heals the beloved daughter of this faith-filled woman.

Let Us Pray:

Dear Lord, may I have the strong faith, spiritual persistence, and fierce love of the Syrophoenician woman.