The Israelites were close to the fulfillment of their hopes in the Promised Land, flowing with milk and honey. But fearing the powerful inhabitants of Canaan, they gave up quickly, losing faith in God's promises. In their desert wanderings they would have to learn the hard way to trust in the Lord who led them out of Egypt and would bring them to their own land.

The Canaanite woman on the other hand persisted in asking Jesus to free her daughter from a horrible ailment. Even as he tried to discourage her, she would not take "No" for an answer. Despite the insulting term "dog" which Jews generally used of Gentiles, she continued to humbly ask for the crumbs from the table, the leftovers of the blessings given to the Israelites. She believed in His power, and trusted in His goodness. This woman, not a member of God's people, received the favour she requested because of her faith. Jesus showed concern for all people, even Gentiles, and gave St Paul the model for allowing them to become members of the Church without following the Jewish traditions. They would all be saved, not by the Jewish law, but only through faith in Jesus.

In our trials and problems, we Christians need to believe more in the Lord's goodness that has helped us again and again in our lives.