The late Edward V. Hattrick, O.S.A. tells the story of a Japanese man who went on pilgrimage to the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem where he observed everyone praying devoutly. He approached one of the visitors and questioned how often he came to pray “before the holy stones.” The visitor confirmed that he visited sometimes two to three times per week. The visitor also confirmed that he prayed for peace for Israel, peace for the world, etc. The Japanese man pressed further “Do your prayers before these holy stones get answered?” “No,” said the man, “between you and me, it’s like talking to a brick wall!
This upcoming weekend, the Gospel story of the woman who asked Jesus to free her daughter from a demon seems to run into that same brick wall. She kept up her pestering, each time being refused, until she finally knelt before Jesus, begging for help – to no avail. From the point of view of the disciples, she is a person who does not matter. Some could say this lady was praying in her own way to that same “brick wall”!
Most of us have had similar experiences, praying fervently for something important to us – maybe healing for an elder, a job, etc., all sometimes seemingly to no avail. Some of us become so discouraged that we turn away from the God who seemingly appears to not care very much at all. We have all had that seeker’s heart one time or another, only for some to be so discouraged that they walk away from Church and even God. Like the Canaanite woman, we seemingly give up our “faith”.
Perhaps, however, we misunderstand the word “faith”. Faith is not an intellectual assent that we will get what we want. Rather we are called in faith to trust in a God who loves us unconditionally. Ultimately, the woman in the story does receive that for which she has begged Jesus. – she showed her trust in God by not settling, arguing for justice, AND by proving her deep love for her child and Jesus. True faith gives life and love– without love, faith becomes thoroughly lifeless.
God’s increase in true heart faith automatically calls us to become more loving. Faith-filled love is always answered with a “yes”. It is about standing on the side of love and justice despite the consequences to oneself. With that gift of love, offered especially to those who are sick or suffering, lonely, poor, etc., we receive what we need the most – a greater trust and love for Christ.
-Carol Pisani
