Our scripture this week is Matthew 15:21-28.
Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came to him, crying out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is demon-possessed and suffering terribly.” Jesus did not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.” He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.” The woman came and knelt before him. “Lord, help me!” she said. He replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” “Yes it is, Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment.
How hard is it for us to ask for help? We have been raised to believe we are self-sufficient, to care for our own needs and help others in need, but what about when we need help? Are we able to reach out in faith to ask as well as to give?
Our situation with the COVID pandemic has caused great social upheaval. Many have been out of work, through no fault of their own, and for the first time in their lives, need to ask for assistance. I have heard from people who are ashamed to apply for unemployment benefits or visit the local food pantry. I have talked to business owners who grieve not being able to pay their employees or keep their operations going.
Jesus tells us that our faith is essential in times like this and like the Canaanite woman in our scripture lesson, we are allowed to ask for help. Matthew 7:7 tells us “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you”. Don’t give up trying, especially in troubled times. Trust in God and don’t be afraid to ask for what you need.
Gracious God, all good gifts are from You and we are thankful for Your care. Help us to care for others, sharing what You give and asking for what we need in faith. Amen.