Daily Catholic Lectio
Thu, 13 February ‘25
Fifth Week in Ordinary Time – Thursday
Genesis 2:18-25. Psalm 128. Mark 7:24-30
Hungering Puppies!
We may have countless thoughts and ideas, but ultimately, our actions define who we are. Often, we remain trapped in our own thoughts, hesitating to act. There are no external obstacles preventing us from pursuing what we desire—more often, we are our own biggest obstacle.
Today’s Gospel reading teaches us about persistence and determination through the Syrophoenician woman, a mother desperately seeking healing for her demon-possessed daughter.
She is: A woman, which already made her socially disadvantaged in her time; A foreigner, not belonging to the Jewish community; A mother of a demon-possessed daughter, carrying the pain of her child’s suffering.
Yet, her only focus is her daughter’s healing. With unwavering faith, she approaches Jesus, believing that He alone can grant her request.
A lesson in perseverance: Unlike many other healings, Jesus does not immediately grant her request. Instead, He challenges her with a statement: “It is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the puppies.”
Rather than reacting with anger or offense, the woman patiently engages with Jesus and responds humbly: “Yes, Lord, but even the puppies under the table eat the crumbs the children drop.”
Jesus had been looking at the table, but she looked beneath it—understanding that even a small blessing from Him was enough.
Her deep faith and perseverance move Jesus to heal her daughter instantly.
What can we learn from this woman?
Do not take things personally or respond with anger. If the woman had been offended by Jesus’ words and walked away, her daughter would not have been healed. Instead of allowing emotions to control the situation, she remained patient and found a way forward.
Stay persistent in seeking what truly matters.
Like a hungry puppy that does not give up, she refused to turn back empty-handed.
She believed that even the smallest blessing from Jesus was enough to change her daughter’s life.
Handle difficult situations wisely. She did not argue or fight; instead, she used wisdom and humility to respond to Jesus. Even when events seem out of our control, patience and wisdom help us steer them in the right direction.
Creation and Responsibility
In today’s first reading, we see the creation of woman—God brings her to man as a fitting partner. Adam’s words, “Bone of my bones, flesh of my flesh,” are not just an emotional outburst but a statement of responsibility and commitment.
Similarly, in Psalm 128, we are reminded that true blessings come from the Lord, and those who walk in His ways will experience prosperity and peace.
Final Reflection
The Syrophoenician woman’s faith teaches us to persevere in prayer and not give up when we face obstacles. True faith is not easily discouraged; it keeps knocking until the door is opened.
May we approach God with humility and trust, knowing that even the smallest grace from Him is enough to transform our lives.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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