WEDNESDAY (August 19, 2020)
In the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel Sentence
“Thus says the LORD: “Keep justice, and do righteousness, for soon my salvation will come, and my righteousness be revealed.” (Isaiah 56:1)
Reading
“And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and was crying, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely oppressed by a demon.” But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying out after us.” He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”” (Matthew 15:21–24)
Meditation
The Canaanite woman does a remarkable thing here. She, an unclean, cast-out woman, approaches Jesus the holy One. She cries out in understanding of who this Jesus is…”Oh, Lord, Son of David.” She recognizes Jesus as the Messiah, and begs for mercy for her demon-possessed daughter. She comes to the One who has come to heal the sick, cast out demons and raise people from the dead. She comes to the fount of mercy, knowing there is healing there. She is persistent, despite the disciples irritation with her, and despite Jesus’ silence. And when He does answer, it sounds as if He too wants to send her away, but there is more to that story…
Silence
Prayer for Holy Cross Member
Be with Geri this day, O Lord, and show her your great love throughout all the days of her life. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Prayer of the Week (from Sunday)
Almighty and everlasting Father, You give Your children many blessings even though we are undeserving. In every trial and temptation grant us steadfast confidence in Your loving-kindness and mercy; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Lord’s Prayer