At that time, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon.
And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out,
“Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David!
My daughter is tormented by a demon.”
But Jesus did not say a word in answer to her.
Jesus’ disciples came and asked him,
“Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us.”
He said in reply,
“I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
But the woman came and did Jesus homage, saying, “Lord, help me.”
He said in reply,
“It is not right to take the food of the children
and throw it to the dogs.”
She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps
that fall from the table of their masters.”
Then Jesus said to her in reply,
“O woman, great is your faith!
Let it be done for you as you wish.”
And the woman’s daughter was healed from that hour.
Simple Instructions:
After reading the first time…invite to share, a word, a phrase, idea, image or thought.
After reading the second time… invite to share: What helps me persist and focus on Jesus like the Canaanite woman did is…
After reading the third time… invite to share… what I am called to do or what I am called to change.
Then move around the circle…offering prayer of thanks (Thank you God…) and petition (Please God…).
Conclude by praying the Lord’s Prayer together.
Remember one is always free to pass.