Friday of the Third Week in Lent

Read Matthew 15:21–28

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My daughter was at death’s door, and I was at my wits’ end. Nothing could bring my child back to health. I’d heard rumblings of a Jew working miracles over in Israel. But he moved around a lot, so nobody knew quite where he’d be.

I couldn’t believe my ears when I heard he was on our side of the lake. I fought my way through the crowd and pleaded with him to have mercy on my family — but he ignored me. I threw myself in front of him and tried again. He tried deflecting, but I stood my ground. I’d heard of Jews who rejected his help — but I’d gladly have taken what they didn’t want. He was my best hope; I wasn’t about to be turned away. He smiled, commended my faith, and told me my daughter was healed. Persistence pays off, even for us “Gentiles.”

Jesus, increase my faith and multiply my persistence. Never let me doubt your capability.

Text by Jodi Craiglow

Video from First United Presbyterian Church of Belleville, IL