Jesus is our peace.  He does tear down the wall that separates us from each other.  So, he makes one of us who come from all races, cultures and nations.

There is no answer from Jesus to the Canaanite woman who cries out to him for help.  Besides, he uses the word ‘dog,’ a word Jews use to refer to those who are not Jews.  So, Jesus does not seem to tear down yet the wall that separates the Jews from the Canaanites.

Such indifference and disdain on Jesus’ part shock many and cause much difficulty.  At best, we might say he tests the Canaanite woman.  Yet it is clear that he and the disciples are just interested in saving Israel, the Jews.

And maybe this account from Matthew shows that the early Christians struggle to grasp two things:  Jews reject Jesus and the Gentiles welcome him.  It is hard for the early Christians to grasp that these two things are part of God’s plan.  For he does not back out of his choice of Israel nor does he take back his gifts and his call.

Like the Canaanite woman, we do not find it hard to admit kneeling that salvation is from the Jews:  it is the children’s food.  We insist also, as she, that this salvation overflows for the good of all:  even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table.

But is it not hard for us, as Catholics, not to think we are better than those who are not Catholics (see F. Mauriac)?  Do we see to it that we tear down the walls in which we try to hem in God’s mercy?  Also, do we, like St. Vincent, value women and what they bring to the table (SV.EN XIIIb:432)?

Lord Jesus, grant that we tear down walls of nationalism, racism and exclusivism.  And do not let us who hold your Supper get sick for not being with those who are poor.  For not sharing with them our goods. Bring us all to the Holy Mountain.

16 August 2026
20th Sunday in O.T. (A)
Is 56, 1. 6-7; Rom 11, 13-15. 29-32; Mt 15, 21-28