The story of Jesus encountering the Syrophoenician (pagan) woman does not fit our usual image of Jesus “meek and mild.” He seems to contemporary eyes rather unfeeling. This scene proves the Biblical truth that Jesus was “like us in all things but sin.” He was tired. He was on vacation. He just wanted to be left alone. When she makes her request he drew some clear lines — taking care of the lost sheep of the house of Israel was a big enough job. But her insistent faith caused him to change his mind. He learned to expand his circle of care. We are tempted to care just for our immediate circle, our family, friends, neighbors. Like Jesus we learn everyone has a claim on us.
