MONTHLY DEVOTIONAL FOR 5 AUGUST
August 5, 2026
FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD JESUS – 6th AUGUST
August 6, 2026
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
5 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
A Canaanite woman begged Jesus to heal her demon-tormented daughter. Jesus initially seemed to ignore her, then said He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel. But her persistent faith moved Christ’s heart: “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.”
This episode reveals that persevering faith overcomes all obstacles. The woman was not discouraged by Jesus’ apparent refusal. Her humility and insistence are a model for us when we feel God does not answer our prayers. Christ never ignores sincere faith—sometimes He tests it to strengthen it.
If your prayers seem unanswered today, do not give up. Persevere with this woman’s humility and trust. God always responds to authentic faith—perhaps not as we expect, but always for our greater good.
PRAYER
Lord of Perfect Counsel, open my heart to Your divine teaching. Teach me to persevere through every trial so my faith may grow ever deeper. Use me to draw souls to Your loving Heart.
Jesus, I trust in You. Amen
