Persistence
by Anne Hansen
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Then Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted’. And her daughter was healed at that moment (Matthew 15:28).
Read Matthew 15:21–28
I really enjoy making greeting cards. I love to take a blank piece of card, and with creativity and persistence, a card is created for someone I love. I think over the years, I have gotten better, and my creativity has expanded, as well as all the tools of the trade I have gathered in my little (or not so little) cupboard. I have been to craft shows and workshops and listened and watched friends to gain more ideas and courage to try something different. Because it is something I am passionate about and really enjoy, I try to squeeze in time to make them for others. When we are passionate about something, we can become quite persistent and relentless in getting it right.
A woman came to Jesus asking for help. She was not a Jewish woman but a Canaanite woman, which, at that time, meant she was a pagan and unclean to the Jewish people. When you read this story, at first it appears that Jesus insulted this woman when he appeared to call her a ‘dog’. However, in this metaphor, Jesus was trying to explain the priorities of his ministry, as well as teaching his disciples. Non-Jews were known as Gentiles and were considered so unspiritual that even being in their presence could make a person unclean. Then Jesus explained that his duty was to the people of Israel, and changing this would be like a father taking food from his children and giving it to the pets.
Jesus was sent to turn everything upside down. The woman said she understood, for that was within the cultural norms, but had the persistence to keep asking. She believed Jesus could heal her daughter. Jesus then tested her intentions and her faith in him. Do we have the faith and convictions in our Saviour to keep asking and persisting in our prayers? Are the things we are asking for something Jesus could do for your (or others) wellbeing?
Persistence takes effort and great faith!
Loving Father, keep me asking and searching for your truths in this world. Help me have the faith that you will answer all my prayers. Amen.
Anne Hansen has worked as the Lutheran Tract Mission Development Officer for 19 years. She is married to Pastor Mark Hansen (who serves in Noosa Qld), and they have three grown children – Jonah, Christian and Emma. Previously, Anne was a Lutheran school teacher, having taught at Good Shepherd Lutheran in Noosa Qld, St Marks in Mount Barker SA, and Golden Grove Lutheran School in SA. Anne says she loves serving Jesus! Her other roles have included pastor’s kid, Lutheran Youth of South Australia (LYSA) president, Lutheran Youth Encounter (USA) events director, nanny in Wales, backpacker through Europe, puppeteer, musician (touring the USA for two years), Know Your Bible (KYB) leader, Mainly Music leader and children’s ministry leader.
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