Mark 7:25-26
Soon a woman whose daughter had an unclean spirit heard about him. She came and fell at his feet. The woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by birth, and she begged him to drive the demon out of her daughter.
Over the last few years, our culture has seen dramatic upheaval in political, social and familial life. There's much discussion and frankly uncivil discourse among people, families, governments and countries on a wide range of topics. Sexual equality (and identity), racial justice (or injustice), and religious intolerance and government borders are just some of the issues we face today. But even two thousand years ago, some of the same issues were being addressed in the church.
In today's reading, Jesus is approached by woman who has a sick daughter. Mark writes in the description that she is not only Greek but Syrophoenian, and that she need help. Back then, the Jews had strict rules regarding healing and who they healed, and when they healed. The Jews had social rankings in their society also. Remember the Samaritan? Now Jesus comes along, and fully knowing the societal climate he's in, heals the girl. He throws the rules and the circumstances out of the window. He sees someone who needs help, who needed relief and provides healing. He knows this will draw the ire of some, but heals again and again.
We can all probably take something from this story, especially in light of the current political environment. We can also look at ourselves. Do we help those around us when they need help, or are we afraid of persecution of us by others when we help those in need? Pray today for wisdom and courage to help others, no matter their race, gender, nationality, religion, or any other difference.
