First Thoughts - Matthew 15:10-28

This passage is difficult for us to even understand, let alone interpret. We are so uncomfortable with Jesus' response to the Canaanite woman that the standard "cultural" explanations don't cut it for us.

How could Jesus have been so rude and insensitive to this woman? Where does He get off calling her a dog, even if it was the culturally accepted norm for the time? And what's with his sudden change of heart after she argues with him?

There are a couple of thoughts which may help us to shed light on the passage.

First, I believe that we need to look at the the placement of this passage within the overall context of Matthew, particularly in regards to the miraculous feedings. If we accept the interpretation that the 12 baskets of leftover bread at the feeding of the five thousand represent the Bread of Life being sufficient for the twelve tribes of Israel, and the 7 baskets of leftover bread at the feeding of the four thousand represent the Bread of Life being sufficient for the seven pagan nations, then this whole section takes on new meaning.

Throughout all three passages, we have the image of "leftovers," either abundant leftovers at the feedings, or simply crumbs for the Canaanite woman. Is it possible that the focus of Jesus' ministry is transitioning at this point? Is the feeding of the four thousand a reaction to this encounter? Is Jesus "learning" that his mission is for all people--gentiles included?

There's also a correlation between this passage and the parables of the mustard seed and the yeast. This woman, whether consciously or not, recognizes that all she needs is a little bit of the Kingdom of God in order to make a huge difference in her life. Just a crumb will be sufficient to heal her daughter. She would be satisfied with just a bit of leftovers of God's grace.

Jesus actions also highlight the prevailing religious culture of the day. Even as he appears to treat this woman with disdain, we recognize that there were definitely 'outsiders' in the Jewish faith. There were those who could never break through the religious structures in order to find God. Even the disciples of Jesus tried to send this woman away.

Do we keep people out of the Kingdom of God? Not intentionally, but in subtle ways?

I don't think that we are like the Pharisees who tried to exclude people, but I fear that we accomplish the same by failing to be relevant.

It's not that God's Word is irrelevant, as I believe it's always relevant to all people. But is our worship relevant? Do we really bring people into the presence of God, or do we waste time with announcements and performances and business that means nothing to a visitor? Are our buildings welcoming? or forbidding? Do our activities meet the needs of the community? or just the insiders?

In other words, are we hoarding crumbs? Or are we letting them spill over every where we go?

Grace and Peace,

PastorJon