February 25, 2024 - Reminiscere Sermon

Old Testament: Genesis 32:22–32
Psalm: Psalm 121; antiphon: vv. 1–2
Epistle: Romans 5:1–5
Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 4:1–7
Gospel: Matthew 15:21–28
Introit: Psalm 25:1–2a, 7–8, 11; antiphon: vv. 6, 2b, 22
Gradual: Psalm 25:17–18
Tract: Psalm 106:1–4

Holding God to His Word
 
Jacob wrestled with God; he would not let Him go until he received a blessing from Him (Gen. 32:22–32). So it was with the Canaanite woman. Though Jesus seemed to ignore and reject her, she continued to call upon His name and look to Him for help (Mt. 15:21–28). Even when the Lord called her a little dog, she held on to Him in faith and would not let Him wriggle out of His words: “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” This Gentile woman shows herself to be a true Israelite, who struggles with God and man in Christ and prevails. “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire” (Mt. 15:27–28). This is the sanctifying will of God (1 Thess. 4:1–7)—to test your faith in order that it may be refined and strengthened. For tribulation produces perseverance; perseverance, character; character, hope. And hope in Christ does not disappoint (Rom. 5:1–5).