What can we learn from the woman's humility in Mark 7:28? Context of the Encounter Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre, where “a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit” (Mark 7:25) begged Him for help. Because she was a Gentile, Jesus spoke of “children” (Israel) and “dogs” (Gentiles) to illustrate the ordained order of His mission. Her reply—“Yes, Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs” (Mark 7:28)—reveals a striking humility that unlocks the lesson. A Humble Admission of Position • She accepts Jesus’ priority for Israel without argument. • She calls Him “Lord,” acknowledging His rightful superiority. • She does not bristle at being likened to a household dog; instead, she lets the picture stand and works within it. Recognition of Jesus’ Abundant Mercy • By asking only for crumbs, she shows confidence that even the overflow of Christ’s power is more than enough. • Her request implies that mercy is so plentiful in Jesus that none of His covenant purposes for Israel will be diminished by helping her. Humility that Perseveres • She refuses to walk away when the first answer sounds like a “no.” • Her faith presses through cultural, ethnic, and gender barriers, convinced that Jesus’ heart is bigger than any obstacle. • The Lord honors this stance—“For this statement you may go; the demon has left your daughter” (Mark 7:29). What We Learn for Our Walk • True humility submits to God’s ordering of things—even when it places us last (cf. Matthew 20:16). • Humility and faith are inseparable; acknowledging our lowliness frees us to trust His greatness. • God delights to lift the humble (James 4:6); the lower we bow, the more room He has to pour out grace. • Persistent prayer that clings to Christ’s character will not be turned away (Luke 18:1–8). • Even “crumbs” from Jesus surpass the world’s finest feast; no request is too small, and no person is too insignificant for His compassion. Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 51:17 — “A broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” • Isaiah 66:2 — “But to this one will I look: to the humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word.” • 1 Peter 5:6 — “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may exalt you in due time.” • Philippians 2:5–8 — Christ Himself models the ultimate humility, laying aside status to serve and save. |
    |