Psalm 128:1-2, 3, 4-5
Mark 7:24-30 Full Readings
Saint Giles Mary of Saint Joseph
Humility When Praying
In the second account of the beginning of all things, the way in which man continues the creative work of God is shown by his naming the animals. A thing with no name cannot be fully grasped and is not really complete. Under the friendly guidance of God, man completes the divine work of creation. Having joined in the act of creation, the man will take affectionate care of what he has completed. But none of these is a fit companion, and man remains solitary, miserable, and incomplete without a partner, so God made a woman out of the man's rib. Sometimes, this reading is used to justify the dominance of men over women, but truly, the man cannot claim that he is superior as the source of the material that made a woman, for the LORD God does the work of moulding the woman from the rib just as he had moulded the man from earth. The act of creating a woman from the rib of a man didn't imply dominion of man over woman but shows that God can do anything he wants, and we should not interpret it in our own way to suit what we want.
However, the companionship of man and woman is shown here because the woman is made from the part closest to the man’s heart, the rib, so that with relief and satisfaction the man exclaims, ‘bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh’. This from the beginning shows that man and woman are supposed to be with each other with perfect affection and partnership between them—this wondrous and trusting love in the innocence of perfect nakedness. There is nothing to hide, so no embarrassment, no threat of danger or exploitation, but only confidence and respect for one another. How do we then justify same-sex relationships and marriages? We should always pray for the restoration of the original nature and harmony.
In the gospel, the Syrophoenician woman, whose daughter was possessed by a demon, teaches us persistence and patience in prayer. Sometimes God delays answering our prayer—not that He doesn't want to give us what we ask but to test our patience and perseverance in asking and praying to him. Though He might not give us exactly what we ask, in the end, with our persistence in faith, He will give us what is best for us and for others, and which gives Him glory. So don't be afraid, but stand firm in faith, and God will answer us.
In our own lives, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we deserve the mercy of God. We can think that we have a right to God’s grace. And even though Jesus deeply desires to pour forth His grace and mercy in superabundance on our lives, it is essential that we fully understand our unworthiness before Him. The disposition of this woman’s heart sets for us a perfect example of how we must come to our Lord.
This Syrophoenician woman also teaches us great humility in prayer. Though she was regarded as a dog, she responded in humility and stayed focused on what she was asking. In fact, Jesus didn't mean to regard her as a dog but to test her humility, patience, and faith. She passed the test, and that's why at last Jesus says, "Woman, you have great faith. Let your wish be granted." Therefore, brethren, in standing firm and persevering in faith, need to be guided by humility as well.
Reflect today on how persistent you are in prayer and faith. Do you wait for God to respond to you, or do you automatically seek other ways to get what you want? Is your prayer accompanied with humility, for God listens to the humble and contrite heart? Pray for the gift of patience and humility today.
Let us Pray
By your grace, help me always not to be afraid but only stand firm in faith so that at the opportune time, I'll get what you have prepared for me, my God. Amen
Be blessed
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