What Jesus Did! 'Couldn't Keep It Quiet' — Mark 7:24-26

Jesus and his leading followers are still in need of rest. The crowds have pressed upon them repeatedly. However, Jesus' reputation has now grown, and he is well known even far away from his home and the center of ministry. Gentiles have heard of his power and know their need for help. In this context — Jesus' and the disciples' deep need to withdraw to be alone and the seeking hearts of Gentiles — a woman comes to Jesus with a deep concern on her heart. Her daughter is possessed by an evil spirit. The Phoenician people had a proud, but very pagan, heritage (from a Jewish point of view). They had often been bitter enemies with the children of Israel. For this woman to fall at the feet of a Jew, especially one of "no noble rank," was indeed a sign of desperation and humility. Coming from the Phoenician culture that produced Jezebel and a host of condemning words in the Bible because of their Baal worship, here is a woman who shows dependence on and worship to the Savior of the world, who also happens to be Jewish. Not even the distance — geographical and racial — could keep Jesus' saving power from being known!