St. Paul concludes, “That
he may have mercy on all.” (Romans 11:32). The Canaanite woman from this
Sunday’s Gospel reading, (Matthew 15:21–28) boldly confessed her faith in
Christ. This woman’s faith and hope were not disappointed. Her prayers were answered in the mercy of
Christ. Not only does He grant us the crumbs from His table. He also feeds us
with “the children’s bread” in the
house of His Father.
Faith believes that God is not a Divine Accountant of
Probation Officer. Rather, He’s an indulgent father. Who throws a party for his
indigent son. He’s like an employer, who pays employees a full day’s wage even
though they only worked an hour. He’s like a lavish wedding host, who provides
copious amounts of only the best and finest wine. He’s your Good Shepherd content
to leave behind ninety-nine of His herd in safety. Who will risk all to save
just one that is lost.
This is the God who desires to bless all people I’m
tempted to curse. He includes those whom I’d exclude. And embraces the very
people I would shun. This good news, He says, is for all people. No one is to
be excluded from the Father’s presence.
May this be
our prayer, Lord, through the power of
the Gospel - eclipse fear and hatred. By the power of Your love - eclipse
violence and injustice. By the mercies of Christ - eclipse racism and bigotry.
Schnorr von
Carolsfeld, woodcuts “The Crucifixion” copyright © WELS Permission to use these
copyrighted items is limited to personal and congregational use.
No comments:
Post a Comment