A WORD FOR TODAY 9 AUGUST 2023

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*A WORD FOR TODAY*

*FAITH AND HUMILITY MELT THE HEART OF GOD*

_But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.” And he answered, “It is not fair 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 15:25‭-‬28)_‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

_*We are often looking for a perfect formula to prayer. Everyone wants a method of prayer that will yield results. From the above text above, we can adopt a method of prayer that pleased Jesus so much so that he immediately granted the request of the one asking. In the above text we see a mixture of faith and humility.*_

_From the passage we learn that it is important to go to God in faith; and it is also equally important to go in humility. The woman in the text is not humble because she accepted a seemingly derogatory remark. She is rather seen as humble because she was sincere and accepted who she was before Jesus. She did not think herself to deserve anything from him but for his mercy. She had no sense of entitlement._

_*This same show of humility played out in the story of the healing of the centurion’s sick servant. The centurion had recognised his unworthiness to have Jesus under his roof. Yet he equally had faith that a word from Jesus would heal his servant. Jesus was greatly pleased and granted him his request.*_

_Dear friend, it is advisable that when we go to God in prayer, we do not forget our unworthiness. We must comport ourselves and choose our words carefully. We must not be arrogant, acting like children who do not hold their father in high esteem. We must emphasize our dependence on and subjection to God._

_*Any time we go to God in prayer. Faith and humility should be evident in us. God loves this and He is attracted by it. Humility opens the door for faith to have access to God.*_

_As we go out about our work today, Let us keep in mind the power of faith and humility. Even mortal men are happy to help those who are humble. Faith and humility melts the heart of God and makes him want to help us. Good morning dearest one. Smile😊as you do your work and do have a beautiful day. And may the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen._

*Meditation:* Numbers 13:1-2.25-14:1.26-29.34-35/Psalm 106:6-7ab.13-14.21-22.23/Matthew 15:21-28

_*Watch-Word:* Lord, remember us with the favour you show to your people._

_*Humility and faith brings us into the presence of God and help us to obtain our request.*_

(Wednesday of the eighteenth week in the ordinary time.)

*© Rev. Fr. Augustine Eleke*