Join Father Justus at St. Pius V Priory for an uplifting reflection on the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time. This message explores one of the most surprising and moving encounters in the Gospels—when Jesus travels to Sidon and Tyre (modern-day Lebanon) and meets a determined woman whose faith changes everything.
The scene is unexpected: Jesus, who has spent his ministry confronting Pharisees and scribes in the Holy Land, suddenly withdraws to foreign territory. There, a desperate mother approaches, shouting for help to heal her demon-possessed daughter. But Jesus does something shocking—He remains silent, even as His disciples grow annoyed by her persistence.
When Jesus finally speaks, His words seem harsh: "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." Yet this woman refuses to be dismissed. She kneels before Him and pleads, "Have pity on me." Jesus's response—comparing her to a house dog eating scraps from the master's table—might sound insulting, but the woman's clever, humble reply displays such great faith that Jesus cannot help but grant her request.
Father Justus reveals a beautiful truth: Jesus likely laughed at this woman's cleverness and persistence. As St. Thomas Aquinas said, "To be human, you have to know how to laugh." The Church Fathers even called this woman "the mother of the Gentiles," recognizing her as a symbol of faith that transcends all boundaries.
A Word of Hope: Do not be afraid to go to Jesus with persistence. He will hear you.
Timeline
- 0:00-0:14 – Introduction from St. Pius the 5th Priory
- 0:14-0:40 – Jesus travels to Sidon and Tyre, leaving the Holy Land
- 0:40-1:02 – A woman approaches, shouting for help to heal her daughter
- 1:02-1:31 – Jesus's surprising silence and the disciples' frustration
- 1:31-2:02 – Jesus explains his mission to the apostles
- 2:02-2:43 – The woman's persistent faith and Jesus's challenging response
- 2:43-3:07 – The woman's clever, humble answer and Jesus's appreciation
- 3:07-3:18 – The lesson: persistence and faith bring healing
- 3:18-3:28 – Closing message of hope
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