Power for Today

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.” (Romans 5:1-2, NIV)

A Canaanite woman came to Jesus. She was not a Jew. She was not a part of the “in” group. She knew what she needed. “Have mercy on me.”(Matthew 15:22, NIV) Her cry to Jesus was one of despair. Her daughter was suffering from demon possession. What would bring a mother to greater despair? Imagine a demon living in her baby. Misery! The Canaanite woman came to the Lord, her only hope.

After her cry to Jesus, the disciples wanted to send her away. The disciples who surrounded Jesus did not encourage her or have mercy for her. She irritated and annoyed them. They wanted her to leave.

She knelt before the Lord and asked for help. She was on her knees. Jesus did not immediately help her. There was a delay.

She asked again, being willing to receive a crumb, the leftover waste. She looked to Jesus. She was truly humble, resourceful, and fervent. Jesus saw in her a woman of great faith. Her request was granted.

Faith, like a jackal, feeds among the tombs,
and even from these dead doubts
she gathers her most vital hopes.
- Herman Melville

Dear Father, in the midst of crisis may we maintain steadfast faith in You and Your provision for us of Your Son. We thank You for Your loving presence and may we glorify You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
- JANE HUNDLEY, Lebanon, Tennessee