Since my diagnosis with cancer, I have been reading the healing narratives in the Gospels. I felt a nudge to dwell with these stories of curing and cleansing, to understand the different ways Jesus heals those who come to him—or those who intercede on behalf of the sick and suffering.
But today’s Gospel remains challenging. Is Jesus ignoring or insulting this mother and her people? Is he merely using her plight to foreshadow the expansion of his mission beyond the people of Israel? What about the tormented daughter left at home: Is she a pawn in a power play?
Diving into the Gospel’s healing stories has taught me to dig into the layers of meaning. Some scholars believe the Canaanite woman was a single mother with no one else to advocate for her child. Other commentators note how her story speaks to the plight of exhausted caregivers: not only the ailing girl but her weary mother is lifted up by the end.
What sticks with me is the woman’s willingness to go “one more round” with Jesus. She refuses to back down even after his initial silence and dismissal. Undaunted, she draws closer, pleading with familiar words: “Help me.” Three times she calls him “Lord,” and ultimately, he addresses her with honor as well: “O woman, great is your faith!”
May we stay determined in prayer. May we push beyond what seems possible. May we be willing to go “one more round” with Jesus, believing that goodness could come for us, too.

Laura Kelly Fanucci

Laura Kelly Fanucci is a writer, speaker, and founder of Mothering Spirit, an online gathering place on parenting and spirituality. She is author of Everyday Sacrament, Grieving Together, and To Bless Our Callings.