Devotional Thought

“Then Jesus answered, ‘Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.’ And her daughter was healed at that moment.” Matthew 15:21–28 (NIV)

In this moving story, Jesus encounters a Canaanite woman—a foreigner, a woman, and someone considered unworthy by cultural and religious standards. Initially, Jesus appears to ignore and even rebuff her desperate cries for mercy. But we must ask: was this rejection or revelation? Jesus orchestrates a powerful moment not just to reveal the woman’s unwavering faith, but to challenge the exclusionary mindset of His closest followers.

The Canaanite woman persists. She refuses to believe that she is outside the reach of grace. Her humble but bold reply—“even the dogs eat the crumbs”—moves Jesus to commend her faith publicly. Her daughter is healed, but the deeper miracle is how this interaction reveals the heart of God: one who listens, includes, and saves all who call on His name.

This passage calls us to examine who we consider “outsiders” in our own lives, and whether we are willing to move beyond barriers to bring the good news of Jesus to everyone. Like Jesus, we must be willing to sacrifice our comfort, convenience, and even our reputation to reach the one.

Reflection & Discussion Questions

1. What surprises or challenges you about Jesus’ initial response to the Canaanite woman? How does this interaction change your understanding of how Jesus teaches and tests both individuals and His disciples?

2. The disciples saw the woman as a nuisance. Who are we tempted to dismiss in our own lives or churches? How can we become more aware of these blind spots?

3. Reflect on a time you experienced what felt like divine silence or rejection. How did you respond? How might this story encourage you in such seasons?

4. The woman’s plea was not just about healing—it was about being seen and included. How can our community groups become places where the “outsider” feels welcomed and valued?

5. What does it look like to pursue someone “one-on-one” the way Jesus did? Is there someone in your life God may be prompting you to reach out to?

6. In light of this passage, how would you define the heart of evangelism? How might this impact the way you live and share the Gospel this week?

Action Step:

Identify one person this week who may feel like an outsider—spiritually, socially, or emotionally. Intentionally engage them with a simple act of compassion or an invitation into community.