This week’s gospel readings include the account of the Canaanite woman who approaches Jesus to beg for her daughter’s healing. I think it is fair to say that this passage is one of the most shocking scenes in the entire New Testament. It appears that Our Lord is simply ignoring this poor woman as we are told that “He answered her not a word.” Indeed, when she persists, Our Lord seems to insult her by telling her “It is not fair to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” She doesn’t argue, but merely replies “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” At this humble acknowledgement, Jesus exclaims “O woman, great is your faith!