Here we go again … another feeding, more fights with the Jewish leaders, and a lack of complete understanding by the disciples. Why does John Mark (under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit) include these events here in chapter eight? If we look carefully, we see the compassion of Jesus spreading as the disciples understand a little bit more. As for the Pharisees, they can’t see what’s right in front of their faces. Oh God, give us understanding of your Son Jesus so that we follow Him with our whole hearts!

A gentile mom had greater understanding of, and faith in, Jesus than the disciples. How did that happen? Simply – Jesus opened her heart to believe in Him. In our narrative today, we see that beautiful picture of the work of Jesus to open deaf ears and make speechless tongues to give praise to Him. This story brings the cohesive teaching of Mark 7 to a glorious conclusion – Jesus does all things well!

After the strong rebukes of Jesus to the religious leaders who operated from the outside in, we now meet and experience the faith of one who operates from the inside out. We meet a woman, a Gentile, a foreigner … all identities of which the Jews were dismissive. But not Jesus! His posture is one that welcomes genuine faith and rewards those who seek Him. Come meet this mother of faith.