MONTHLY DEVOTIONAL FOR 16 AUGUST
August 16, 2026
FEAST OF SAINT JOAN OF THE CROSS, JEANNE DELANOUE, VIRGIN – 17th AUGUST
August 17, 2026
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
16 AUGUST, 2026
Matthew 15:21-28
At that time Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon.
And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out,
“Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David!
My daughter is tormented by a demon.”
But he did not say a word in answer to her.
His disciples came and asked him,
“Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us.”
He said in reply,
“I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
But the woman came and did him homage, saying, “Lord, help me.”
He said in reply,
“It is not right to take the food of the children
and throw it to the dogs.”
She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps
that fall from the table of their masters.”
Then Jesus said to her in reply,
“O woman, great is your faith!
Let it be done for you as you wish.”
And her daughter was healed from that hour.
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
This passage highlights the beauty of persistent, humble faith that breaks through all cultural barriers. The Canaanite woman shows us that true faith does not demand or presume; instead, it trusts completely in God’s mercy and goodness. When we face silence or trials, her example invites us to persist in prayer, confident that a humble heart will always move the heart of Christ.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your endless mercy that welcomes all who seek You. Grant me the humble persistence of the Canaanite woman, so that I may trust Your heart even when You seem silent. Strengthen my faith during trials, and let my life reflect a deep confidence in Your healing power and perfect timing.
Amen
