Dogs? Doesn’t sound like very Christ-like language does it?
Language like this was usual fare in use by Jews in reference to gentiles. Jesus is probably giving an initial refusal to this woman’s request using the endearing (puppies) or degrading “dogs” (both are possible) because she was interrupting and in order to discern whether or not her heart is open to more than some act of magic from someone she may perceive as a local magician.
But this woman humbles herself, taking no offense. She essentially admits she has no right to be at the table. She doesn’t claim racisim and admits she’s a sinner. She doesn’t demand her rights. This is much more than a good strategy to get what she wants. What we see here is a wonderful combination of an attitude of humility and a bold trust in the magnitude of God’s grace through Jesus.
We would do well to learn from this woman.
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