Aunt Deb's Attic

Mark 7:24-30
Then he left Galilee and went to the region of Tyre and Sidon, and tried to keep it a secret that he was there, but couldn’t. For as usual the news of his arrival spread fast.

Right away a woman came to him whose little girl was possessed by a demon. She had heard about Jesus and now she came and fell at his feet, and pled with him to release her child from the demon’s control. (But she was Syrophoenician—a “despised Gentile”!)

Jesus told her, “First I should help my own family—the Jews. It isn’t right to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.”

She replied, “That’s true, sir, but even the puppies under the table are given some scraps from the children’s plates.”

“Good!” he said. “You have answered well—so well that I have healed your little girl. Go on home, for the demon has left her!”

And when she arrived home, her little girl was lying quietly in bed, and the demon was gone.

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

At the end of a reality TV program I watch called “Project Runway,” the host says, “One day you’re in – the next day you’re out.”  Let’s be honest…this is probably how we sometimes feel about ourselves…and/or how we treat others – and neither is acceptable.

Jesus demonstrated that there is no need to apologize for who we are if we genuinely trust that He is our LORD and Savior. There is no reason to assume that we have to wait in line behind those who are “more” in some manner to receive OUR salvation – or God’s blessings. Jesus also tells us not to treat others in this manner.  We are in no way more important than another person – no matter who he/she is - or what he/she may have done.  ALL who believe and demonstrate faith in Jesus – and surrender to Him – are welcome, and qualify for Salvation.  ANYONE who believes in Jesus can be saved…and blessed.

I cannot emphasize enough how critical it is that we recognize not only our value in Jesus’ eyes…and but the fact that none of us is better than another to Him.  “Country Club Christianity” runs somewhat rampant these days… and it needs to come to a screeching halt.  The concept of “us vs. them” must disappear from our vocabulary – and our thought process.  We need to look at every person we meet as a potential child of God - not a dog underneath the table waiting for scraps – even when they act like that’s where they belong.

Aren’t you tired of “Christians” judging others?  I know I am!  If you have ever for one minute felt like you were an “outsider” – for ANY reason, you know how horrible it feels.  I am so grateful that Jesus does not recognize us in this way…that in His arms, we are ALL are welcome. Jesus is simply waiting for us to show Him that we accept His offer to sit at the table rather than glean scraps from the floor.  Jesus is waiting for us to demonstrate to others that they are loved and accepted…that we know that He wants to share His table with them, as well…and so do we.

In the world of a reality TV fashion design contest, you may be in one day and out the next.  But this is not the case with Jesus.  The question you must settle is where your level of faith and Christian discipleship has positioned you – seated at the table, or on the floor underneath it waiting for scraps.  Make this the day that you hear Jesus say, “Sit with me, and fill your plate.”  And make sure that those you encounter know that they are welcome to join you.

©2016 Debbie Robus