The words of Christ seem to be harsh: “It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to dogs.” I would say that these words are not harsh, but instead these words are pastoral. To understand this statement made by our Lord we need to first understand the meaning of three words: children, food, and dogs.
Therefore, the children which are spoken of are representative of those of the Jewish faith. These are the chosen people which God had entered into covenant with. Concerning them it is said in Psalm 89: “I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant: I will establish your descendants for ever, and built your throne for all generations.” What is being referenced here is the fact that the Jewish people are the chosen people of God. These were the people who were freed from their slavery in Egypt and God entered into covenant with them.
Next we have the food which is representative of the Good News of salvation. This Good News of salvation was preached by Christ. It is Christ who fulfills what was instructed by the Prophet Daniel: “to him was given dominion and glory and kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.” We know of Christ that He worked great miracles which caused others to flock to Him. This food is the food of salvation which He brings into the world.
Finally, the dogs are the Gentiles. When we think of dogs we think of the furry companions which live in our homes and are known to us as man’s best friend. To the ancient Hebrew mind this is not the case. To them the dog is something which is repulsive. The dog would eat caracasses and vermin making it an unclean animal which should be avoided. In other words we can conclude from Christ’s words that the Good News given by Christ is not only for the Jewish people, but is also for the Gentiles. This response acknowledges the reality that the Jewish people are the chosen people of God, but points towards the fact that the Gentiles will also have the opportunity to share in this saving reality.
This woman shows her faith and trust placed in the words of the Lord. Likewise, we should model ourself after this Canaanite woman. When all in the world is not going as we would wish we should remember the humility and faith that this woman displays. Let us realize that the Lord loves each of us dearly. Let us realize that we are extended the grace which is necessary for us to be good and faithful servants of the Lord despite all the hardships that may come our way. The Lord clearly desired to extend salvation unto her even though others would of wanted her excluded from it. Likewise, the Lord desires that each of us may be saved. Upon the cross He has done the work for us, but in return what do we do with this great gift that has been extended unto us?
