Jesus had traveled to the Gentile region of Tyre & Sidon, when this Greek woman approached Him shouting. At first, Jesus ignored her…but she persisted, calling out all the more. Finally, Jesus said, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel…first let the children eat all they want, for it’s not right to take the children’s bread & toss it to their dogs.” The derogatory term of dogs (or little pets) wasn’t meant to demean the woman but rather for Jesus to explain the plan of Salvation…namely that Salvation is from the Jews. (John 4:22) And it seems that the woman is well aware of this, for she doesn’t take offense, but nor is she deterred by Jesus’ implicit reminder of Israel’s special covenant with God. Instead, in all humility & hopefulness she replies, “Yes, Lord, but even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs that fall from the master’s table.” With faith-filled confidence the woman is telling Jesus that His power & mercy is more than enough to fill up not only the Jews, but the Gentiles as well… overflowing the boundaries between them. This type of courageous trust & belief impresses Jesus and He replies, “Woman you have great faith. Your request is granted.”
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