Daily Inspiration

“At that time Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out, “Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is tormented by a demon.” But he did not say a word in answer to her. His disciples came and asked him, “Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us.” He said in reply, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But the woman came and did him homage, saying, “Lord, help me.” He said in reply, “It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that hour.” -Matthew 12:21-28
 
We can all relate to the Canaanite woman. How often do we pray but do not seem to hear a reply from God? Our Lord hears and answers every prayer, but perhaps His silence is a blessing.
 
The morning of my wreck, if the Lord would have answered my prayers by saying, “I will strip away your career, prestige, and strength, and I will leave you in constant physical pain. Yet, when I am finished, you will be at peace and happier than you have ever been in your life.” Not only would I not have believed Him, but I would not have accepted what would come. His silence was a gift.
 
God knew I was too stubborn, prideful, and blind to pray the simplest of prayers: “Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David!” Yet He knew what I needed most and pitied me anyway. At that moment, I was healed, and never before have I experienced the peace and happiness I enjoy now. Now, it is easier for me to say in faith: Jesus, I trust in you!
 
 
Pope Saint Sixtus II, pray for us.
 

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