Collect Series: Collect for 20th Sunday Ordinary Time A

 

COLLECT SERIES

COLLECT

The Mass : Collect Series Icon

 The Collect for 20^th Sunday Ordinary Time reads as follows:

O God, who have prepared for those who love You

good things which no eye can see,

Fill our hearts, we pray, with the warmth of Your love,

So that, loving You in all things and above all things,

We may attain Your promises,

Which surpass every human desire

Through Our Lord Jesus Christ Your Son,

Who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God for ever and ever.

 

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

In making this prayer tangible the following reflection questions emerged:

• What are the good things which God has prepared for You?
• How much do I long for God and how might I long for Him more this coming week?
• What steps will I take this coming week to love God above all things?
• What does the warmth of God’s love mean for you?
• How have I experienced God’s love in my life?

 

GOSPEL REFLECTION

The story from Matthew 15:21-28 presents the narrative of the Canaanite woman who begs Jesus to heal her demon-possessed daughter. Initially met with silence and then a seeming rebuff, the woman's persistent faith ultimately moves Jesus to grant her request. This passage offers several layers of meaning, especially when viewed through a Catholic lens.

The Universality of God's Love

Though Jesus' ministry was primarily to the Jews, this story dramatically illustrates the universality of God's love and mercy. The Canaanite woman is not a Jew; she is an outsider, yet her faith compels Jesus to perform a miracle for her daughter. This narrative resonates deeply with the Catholic understanding of a universal Church, open to all people regardless of ethnicity or background.

The Role of Faith and Humility

The Canaanite woman demonstrates immense faith and humility, qualities highly regarded in Catholic teaching. Even after being ignored and seemingly rebuffed, she remains undeterred. Her statement, "Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table," shows her understanding of her own unworthiness but also her undoubtable belief in Jesus' ability to heal.This humility and faith are prerequisites for receiving God's grace.

The Intercessionary Role of the Virgin Mary and Saints

Catholic doctrine includes the practice of asking the Virgin Mary and the saints to intercede on behalf of individuals, much like the Canaanite woman intercedes for her daughter. Her earnest pleas to Jesus demonstrate the power of intercessory prayer, a central aspect of Catholic devotion. The woman's plea serves as a model for all who pray for the needs of others.

Social Justice Implications

This passage is also often examined through the lens of social justice. In the story, Jesus initially tells the woman that He was sent only for the "lost sheep of Israel." However, upon witnessing her faith, He extends His healing power to her, an outsider. This serves as a reminder to challenge societal boundaries and prejudices, advocating for inclusivity and justice.

Contemplative Aspects

Finally, from a contemplative standpoint, this passage invites us to reflect on the nature of our own faith. It prompts questions such as:

·         How persistent are we in our prayers?

·         Do we approach God with the same confidence and humility as the Canaanite woman?

·         How open are we to the universality of God's love and grace?

In summary, the story of the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15:21-28 provides rich material for reflection. It serves as a reminder of the universality of God's love, the importance of faith and humility, the role of intercessory prayer, and the need for social justice.