January 19 Genesis 47-50 & Mark 7:24-47

To say Joseph was a blessing to all the people of the land of Egypt and Canaan is an understatement. But more to the point he was a blessing to his family. How are you a blessing to your family? Adapt and pray the blessing Israel gives Joseph's sons: “May the God in whose presence my fathers Abraham and Isaac walked, The God who has been my shepherd from my birth to this day, The angel who has delivered me from all harm, bless these boys That in them my name be recalled, and the names of my fathers, Abraham and Isaac, And they may become teeming multitudes upon the earth!” Our faith tells us that if we are open to God and his will for us that we can see grace where sin has been. Joseph assures his brothers of this when he says, "Even though you meant harm to me, God meant it for good, to achieve this present end, the survival of many people. So now, do not fear." That is faith. Look for the blessings today and they may come from the place you least expect.

For me this story of the Syrophoenician woman has never been about Jesus changing his mind. It is a story of incredible faith on her part and primarily an important lesson for the disciples (and us). I can almost see the disciples saying, "You tell her Jesus! She is not worth our time or effort! You Pagan go away." Who are the holy ones among us? The disciples certainly did not think it was her. Be a holy person today. Let Jesus heal others through you this day.