Sunday 16 August 2026

Psalm 67

Background
This passage from Matthew’s Gospel feels a bit uncomfortable. It appears that Jesus was acting out of character, without the usual respect and compassion that he had showed, for instance, towards the woman who had touched his robe in hope of healing (Luke 8:43-48) or the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11).

I wonder though how much is, as it were, ‘lost in translation’, not linguistically but in terms of cultural norms or just that we lack the visual cues that reveal nuances in face-to-face conversations? Was there an element of banter in the conversation? Was the exchange more playful than it appears?

What is clear is that the woman was determined and bold in her quest for healing for her child. She also had some knowledge of Jesus even though he was well outside his usual area of operation. She probably realised that he might not be in a hurry to help her and was prepared for possible rejection.

Jesus had retreated from his comfort zone after an altercation with religious leaders who, it seems, could not see beyond their own rules and set practices. Jesus knew that they were more interested in catching him out than in his message. When the disciples suggested sending her away, they were probably trying to protect him at a time when he needed some peace. Notice though that Jesus’ reaction to their suggestion was to start a conversation with the woman, even if the ‘opener’ seems dismissive.

Whatever the nature of the conversation, the result was an acknowledgement of the woman’s faith and the healing of the child. I wonder what the disciples thought about this and whether they saw the contrast between the woman and the religious leaders back home: all of them were determined and bold, but the woman was ready to understand and trust while the leaders, and perhaps the disciples, were too ready to judge.

To Ponder:

• Have you, or anyone you know, had to fight for the rights and welfare of a relative? How did it feel?
• Reflect on this story from the perspective of the disciples. They had experienced controversy at home, travelled with Jesus to this ‘foreign’ territory, and were still ‘learning the ropes’ of his way.

Prayer
Lord, as I travel with you today, may I be open to surprises, however challenging. May I listen well and learn more about your way. Amen.

Bible notes author: The Revd Pamela Cram
Pamela worked in several circuits and ecumenical posts in Wales before retiring in the Swansea Valley, where she is involved in a non-denominational community project; a church partnership with a Welsh independent church; and action for Fairtrade.