Help me. Two simple words. It takes mere seconds to say. We probably ask for help from someone at least once a day. We ask with the expectation we will get the help we need.
Peter asked the Lord for help when he found himself sinking after he stepped out of the boat and walked on the water. The Centurion asked Jesus for help to heal his servant, the Psalms are full of David's pleas to God for help in times of trouble. What is different about this woman's plea for help?
First, Jesus went to her. The only reason Jesus "went north to the region of Tyre and Sidon" was to encounter this woman. He knew her need and left Galilee to go to her.
Second, she was a Gentile, referred to as 'dogs" by the Jews. Remember, Jesus was a Jew. The disciples ask Jesus to “Tell her to go away" and "She is bothering us with all her begging.” They wanted nothing to do with her.
And third, Jesus engages in a little friendly banter with the woman. Yet, how does she respond? She worships Him, she humbles herself and begs "Lord, help me".
Next time you're scared, don't know what to do or desperate for help, ask Jesus. He is there to help, He wants to help, He's just waiting for you to ask.
Matthew 15:21-28 NLT
The Faith of a Gentile Woman
21 Then Jesus left Galilee and went north to the region of Tyre and Sidon. 22 A Gentile woman who lived there came to Him, pleading, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! For my daughter is possessed by a demon that torments her severely.”
23 But Jesus gave her no reply, not even a word. Then his disciples urged Him to send her away. “Tell her to go away,” they said. “She is bothering us with all her begging.”
24 Then Jesus said to the woman, “I was sent only to help God’s lost sheep—the people of Israel.”
25 But she came and worshiped Him, pleading again, “Lord, help me!”
26 Jesus responded, “It isn’t right to take food from the children and throw it to the dogs.”
27 She replied, “That’s true, Lord, but even dogs are allowed to eat the scraps that fall beneath their masters’ table.”
28 “Dear woman,” Jesus said to her, “your faith is great. Your request is granted.” And her daughter was instantly healed.
Blessings, Cecilia
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