It takes courage to be a Canaanite woman who crosses the border of Tyre and

Sidon and approach a rabbi to ask for mercy. The story of the Canaanite

mother who demonstrates faith in Jesus is a compelling narrative of

courage. She believes in the identity and authority of Jesus over demons

and disease so she courageously asks him to heal her daughter. When Jesus

sees her persistent faith, he does as she wishes. It takes courage to call

out for mercy. it takes courage to have faith in God’s vision for

wholeness, flourishing, and justice. It take courage put faith into action

and approach God for what we need. When we do, we become conduits for

mercy.

By Inés Velásquez-McBryde