Journal entry February 7,2026

And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and was crying. Have mercy on me, O Lord, son of David; my daughter is severely oppressed by a demon. But he did not answer her a word. And His disciples came and begged Him saying send her away, for she is crying out after us. He answered, I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. But she came and knelt before Him saying Lord help me. And He answered, it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs. She said, yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters table. Then Jesus answered her, O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire. And her daughter was healed instantly. Matthew 15:22-28

Lord as I read this passage this morning I was reminded of the healing power within You as you walked this earth. The power You possess that is there for the asking. I think of the some of those close to you Lord Jesus when you walked this earth who carried infirmities. Then an outsider came begging.... Her posture and her faith were honored and the power she wished to have released, came instantly.

Father I think of the access we have been granted, and the boldness we have been told to come with, and the results we often see, and I thought, am I coming before You with the begging posture and genuine faith of this outsider?

As I pondered this I was reminded of the woman I saw walking down the hall at the memory care home where I was visiting someone yesterday. She had a mean look in her eye. As this woman came and stood before me, a worker quickly came and ushered her away saying to be to beware of her, for she hits people.

Lord as I was asking You not to give me a mean spirit like that woman, but rather a sweet spirit like my wife, You reminded me how much my wife has suffered over the years and I connected the dots. Do I want the suffering that brings about a sweet spirit? Of course not Lord, I just want the sweet spirit, You can do that right??

Oh how Your will and Your ways are perfect to bring about what is best for Your children. It seems my nature is selfish too often. I want, I want, I want, yet in Your goodness You give what is for my ultimate best. Forgive me Lord for my impatience and my frustration due to my sinful nature. Help me to have the posture and the faith of the Canaanite woman. I pray in Jesus name AMEN AMEN