Welcome back everyone! I hope your Thanksgiving was restful and full of family fun. This week we are looking at Chapter 5. I will keep this post short so that you can begin your reflections. Happy blogging. Peace.
Again, this is another story that I have never really heard of before. It's so interesting to learn a story that is found in the Bible, and the complete meaning behind it. And what a powerful impact this is story has! Like many people, the way Jesus treated the Canaanite Woman shocked me. Isn't Jesus suppose to be righteous to all? But then again when you do think about it, how many of us would do the same thing in that exact situation. Like McKenna's example of the homeless people that beg in the streets, how many times do we just look the other way and pretend they aren't there? This is story just goes to show us, that anyone can have an important part in our lives. Even if we might not even know the person and only encounter them in a few minutes, they can probably alter something in our future without anyone of us knowing it.
Alright, I must admit this wasn't my favorite chapter, but it definitely held my attention in certain parts. The first sentence that made me stop and think 'so what?' was when the author says someone points out Jesus is a man and a jew and the woman is a woman and a canaanite. YEah, I understand that back then that was a perfectly reasonable reaction from a human man, but I feel that is the reaction of a small minded man, and Jesus isn't that. Just because Jesus is human also doesn't mean he has to be the type of human who isn't fair to all. I feel that there is another explanation than just 'Jesus is acting like a human male back then'. Unfortunately, I have no idea what that explanation is other than Him challenging her faith to make it stronger, or maybe Him realizing His full mission at that precise moment. I kinda get the feeling that the disciples needed a lot of work on their mission. Many of the stories in this book so far seem to give the disciples a bad rep. Of course, there are dozens of other stories that show them in a good light, so you just have to search the bible. Near the end of the chapter, I liked how McKenna called the woman a minister to Jesus. She was part of the beginning of his ministry, and she brought about a more open minded faith.
I also found the talk of the homeless very true. Just today I was driving home and had a homeless woman pass by. I didnt have any money, so I just looked at her and said 'sorry'. Its amazing how many people dont even acknowledge them, and I admit sometimes I go to that extreme too. As for the altering of the future, I def. agree with Kat there too.
Well, this chapter kind of confused me in the beginning. Like McKenna predicted, I was really suprised that Jesus talked to the Canaanite woman like that. I didn't think of Jesus as that type of person. (This was the beginning of the chapter). As I read on, I started to think about it and yeah, Jesus was human, and just like any other human being, he's gonna have opinions and say certain things that might not be right. I guess we overlook this, viewing Jesus as all holy and loving everyone he comes in contact with.
This chapter made me realize that this event in Jesus' life was very crucial, because it opened his eyes to not be biast to only the Israelites and love everyone and that impacted me alot. I have always thought that Jesus loved and accepted everyone since the beginning, but I thought wrong. I thought that was pretty scary. Chapter 5 made me actually open my eyes and see Jesus with the most human characteristics, which is what he really is, because all this time I think I have veiwed him as a perfect and flawless person who says and does all the right things and loves everyone.
Also, the comparison of the dogs eating scraps I found very impacting. I don't know how to explain it, but I just like how it was presented in the chapter. I feel like in a way, we are all called to be like these dogs. It sounds kind of funny, but it's true.
KAThleen Jesus' treatment of the woman shocked me very much as well. I was kind of disappointed in him, and it also made me question Jesus' righteousness.! Also, I agree that you never know who will have such a big impact on your life, as did the woman had a big impact on Jesus' life. I bet he didn't even see it coming.
ERICA Yeah, come to think of it, disciples did have kind of a bad reputation. To me they seemed like the just followed Jesus and did whatever Jesus told them to do, not acting on their own feelings and emotions. I guess their faith for Jesus is still increasing as they spend more time with them.
This mite be my favorit chapter but i can admit that this story I have never really heard of before.but it definitely held my attention in some parts. The first sentence t made me stop and think 'so what.'what was the author saying. someone points out Jesus is a man and a jew and the woman is a woman and a canaanite.
To me its races to see a woman just as canaanite and not an equal that just my openion if you can Jesus as christ and a man you should look at woman for what they are
Hi Mr. Novela. I am sorry for the late blog. I really haven't been feeling well, and still don't feel well.
McKenna is sure full surprises. There are so many stories that I haven't heard concerning the role of women in the Bible. And just like everyone else I am surprised.
Just like Jill and Kathleen, I too am surprised on how Jesus acted. And I sort of agree with KeKe that it seemed a little biast or sexist the way Jesus acted, etc. When I think of Jesus, I sort of think of perfection, but sometimes I realize that is why he both human and divine. When he treated the Canaanite Woman that why I remembered the time he was angry in the temple and was yelling and throwing tables around like he was a crazy, strong, madman.
But people make mistakes, and they should be forgiven. I think that is the difference between being human and divine. As human we sin and treat others horrible. we hurt them intentionally or unintentionally, but it doesn't mean we should give up hope. Everybody deserves a second chance, actually so many chances as they need. That is the difference. If we really want to be like God we should forgive and give chances. I know there is a saying about fooling a person once, twice, and thrice...but I think forgiving a person is something that should never stray our hearts, even if they don't deserve it.
Erika and Kat: The homeless and the needy. Sometimes I feel compassion and sometimes I do not because I see some of them more than once a week. Some are truly in need of help, while others are asking for money to buy drinks w/o knowing any better. It's true though so mnay people ignore them. I remember I was in the car with someone, and they got so scared they locked the doors.
But I remember another time, we were drving and there was a person in need on the other side of the road. And my friend's dad went the other direction from the place we were suppose to go. So I was thinking where is he going? And he turned around just to give that person money. I have never forgotten that kindness and forgiveness in his heart.
Erika and Jill: Yes, I also noticed that the disciples do not really know what there mission is. As human, I just think they were so proud to be in the presence of Jesus w/o knowing who he really was. And I remember reading passages in Luke, that made me think the disciples were selfish, and their only concern was who was the greatest amongst them.
Many of us our “shocked” because of the way Jesus is presented in the story. I feel he did no wrong. He neither acted like the men of his time nor as a supposed human. The woman was obviously yearning for help, but Jesus knew what was too happen. He did not want to encounter the women to let her know the truth, but she came looking for it. Everyone doubts his righteousness yet if we are all equal then why does he still talk down to all those in the temple who were gambling and working dirty business. Jesus does not condescend to the level of humans in this chapter. He tries to stray away from a confrontation, but he cures her daughter nonetheless. Is that not enough? Jesus is the messiah and the king if he were to act a certain way it is because he obviously knew what he was doing. I also interpreted as the daughter was possessed by the devil, maybe Jesus was direct the words towards Satan. That’s a different thought to think about.
I have heard this scripture reading many times before and honestly the more I hear it the more it upsets me. I have to a Catholic school since I was in kindergarten and have since learned that Jesus is always welcoming to all, especially those that are not accepted by the community. I was taught that Jesus loves everyone and therefore wants to help everyone and anyone that goes to Him for help. This person that goes to Jesus is a Caanite therefore the community looks down on her and she is also a woman so automatically she goes down on the social scale. It didnt make sense to me that he would practically tell her that he wasn't here to help her kind; that he didn't want to wait his time on her. Aren't we all God's children?
I hadn't really thought about the possiblity that Jessu was just trying to make her faith stronger or really see how strong her faith really was like what Erika had said. I also agree with her that Jesus was acting like a regular guy at the time or even now, but we expect a lot more from Jesus because he is our savior, the son of God.
I agree with everyone here that this chapter was shocking. Jesus having that type of thoughts towards women? Are you kidding me? I have never heard such a thing. Growing up I have learned that Jesus loves us all, regardless of race or gender. But hey, this is something new to swallow. I agree with Erica. Back in those days that was just a typical thought of a woman that was in a mans mind. That still doesn’t justify His thinking of such, human or not. Reading this chapter basically made me realize that Jesus was a human like all of us. Yea sure he had his faults like everybody else.
as many have been saying, i was shocked as well that Jesus acted this way. it seems hypocritical because we are taught that Christ accepts all who want a change. yet in a way, it shows His "humanness". Like Kat mentioned, a perfect analogy was McKenna's referance to homeless people. I can admit that i have turned the other cheek because of even fear of another individual. So who am i to accuse someone of being a hypocrite. We are all not perfect and yes it is inevitable that we will all mess up. It is up to us though to look at the positive things in life instead of the negative. If not, we'll never get out alive.
to be honest im not shocked at was jesus said because i know he far from perfect.for most of his life between his birth and his death wasent even accounted for so i know he lived a normal life and chances are if we go back in time we probably couldnt pick him out of the crowd if we tried. and he acted towards the caananite women like other guys in that time did.which is a bad thought but what did you expect he was raised up around them just like if he was raised up in this time either he could have respect for woman or not and at that time he didnt learn from the right people and didnt go down the right road when it came to his opinions on woman.and its true at times i do ignore the homeless asking for money but i do try to give whatever i got.because it may not change my life but it can darn sure make them happier or give them a better meal or a better place to stay.
At first, i responded typically. This is not the Jesus I'm used to. To be honest, the words cold, uncaring, heartless came to mind. i was literally going to put the book down and read it later. But then i thought, come on, there has to be an explanation, especially if theres a whole chapter dedicated to this story. It is so true that in many stories in the gospels, we forget that Jesus was human, a person like any one of us. He got tired, annoyed, bored, anxious, sad, etc. But even if he was tired, annoyed, etc, he was still expected to "turn on" his sympathy and regard for others. I know when I am having a bad day, i tend to act harshly towards people who are completely independent of the situation. It is human to do this. This book is teaching me to look more deeply into stories of the Bible because thats where most of the meaning lies. When Jesus' situation is explained, the stories turns around and makes sense to me.
sorry once agin with this blog beign so late well after reading chapter 5 i have to say i wasnt that surprised on how Jesus treated her because we have to remeber he isnt only 100% devine but also 100% human so he can make mistakes from time to time. i agree he had alot to worry about he was getting rejected back home, he wasnt home , he wanted to be alone to pray and think over all that is happenign and remeber his mission and what would be his next step then this lady comes by asking for his help plus he doesnt even know her that sound like us with homeless peopel asking for money on the curve we push them to the side and treat them like dirt because we dont know them as well but the difference of what Jesus didd and what we do most of the time he turned around and said what the yet she really needs my help and believes in me let me help her enstead of going on his way leaveign her there with her child taken over by a deamon. that shows us no matter how busy are lives might get we always have tiem to stop and help other especially does that are worse off then us and also i agree no matter how long ago you meet smeone they always leave a good or bad impact in your life it all depends on how you treat them and how they treat you in return.
18 comments:
Again, this is another story that I have never really heard of before. It's so interesting to learn a story that is found in the Bible, and the complete meaning behind it. And what a powerful impact this is story has!
Like many people, the way Jesus treated the Canaanite Woman shocked me. Isn't Jesus suppose to be righteous to all? But then again when you do think about it, how many of us would do the same thing in that exact situation. Like McKenna's example of the homeless people that beg in the streets, how many times do we just look the other way and pretend they aren't there?
This is story just goes to show us, that anyone can have an important part in our lives. Even if we might not even know the person and only encounter them in a few minutes, they can probably alter something in our future without anyone of us knowing it.
Alright, I must admit this wasn't my favorite chapter, but it definitely held my attention in certain parts. The first sentence that made me stop and think 'so what?' was when the author says someone points out Jesus is a man and a jew and the woman is a woman and a canaanite. YEah, I understand that back then that was a perfectly reasonable reaction from a human man, but I feel that is the reaction of a small minded man, and Jesus isn't that. Just because Jesus is human also doesn't mean he has to be the type of human who isn't fair to all. I feel that there is another explanation than just 'Jesus is acting like a human male back then'. Unfortunately, I have no idea what that explanation is other than Him challenging her faith to make it stronger, or maybe Him realizing His full mission at that precise moment. I kinda get the feeling that the disciples needed a lot of work on their mission. Many of the stories in this book so far seem to give the disciples a bad rep. Of course, there are dozens of other stories that show them in a good light, so you just have to search the bible. Near the end of the chapter, I liked how McKenna called the woman a minister to Jesus. She was part of the beginning of his ministry, and she brought about a more open minded faith.
I also found the talk of the homeless very true. Just today I was driving home and had a homeless woman pass by. I didnt have any money, so I just looked at her and said 'sorry'. Its amazing how many people dont even acknowledge them, and I admit sometimes I go to that extreme too. As for the altering of the future, I def. agree with Kat there too.
Well, this chapter kind of confused me in the beginning. Like McKenna predicted, I was really suprised that Jesus talked to the Canaanite woman like that. I didn't think of Jesus as that type of person. (This was the beginning of the chapter). As I read on, I started to think about it and yeah, Jesus was human, and just like any other human being, he's gonna have opinions and say certain things that might not be right. I guess we overlook this, viewing Jesus as all holy and loving everyone he comes in contact with.
This chapter made me realize that this event in Jesus' life was very crucial, because it opened his eyes to not be biast to only the Israelites and love everyone and that impacted me alot. I have always thought that Jesus loved and accepted everyone since the beginning, but I thought wrong. I thought that was pretty scary. Chapter 5 made me actually open my eyes and see Jesus with the most human characteristics, which is what he really is, because all this time I think I have veiwed him as a perfect and flawless person who says and does all the right things and loves everyone.
Also, the comparison of the dogs eating scraps I found very impacting. I don't know how to explain it, but I just like how it was presented in the chapter. I feel like in a way, we are all called to be like these dogs. It sounds kind of funny, but it's true.
KAThleen Jesus' treatment of the woman shocked me very much as well. I was kind of disappointed in him, and it also made me question Jesus' righteousness.! Also, I agree that you never know who will have such a big impact on your life, as did the woman had a big impact on Jesus' life. I bet he didn't even see it coming.
ERICA Yeah, come to think of it, disciples did have kind of a bad reputation. To me they seemed like the just followed Jesus and did whatever Jesus told them to do, not acting on their own feelings and emotions. I guess their faith for Jesus is still increasing as they spend more time with them.
This mite be my favorit chapter but i can admit that this story I have never really heard of before.but it definitely held my attention in some parts. The first sentence t made me stop and think 'so what.'what was the author saying. someone points out Jesus is a man and a jew and the woman is a woman and a canaanite.
To me its races to see a woman just as canaanite and not an equal that just my openion if you can Jesus as christ and a man you should look at woman for what they are
Hi Mr. Novela. I am sorry for the late blog. I really haven't been feeling well, and still don't feel well.
McKenna is sure full surprises. There are so many stories that I haven't heard concerning the role of women in the Bible. And just like everyone else I am surprised.
Just like Jill and Kathleen, I too am surprised on how Jesus acted. And I sort of agree with KeKe that it seemed a little biast or sexist the way Jesus acted, etc. When I think of Jesus, I sort of think of perfection, but sometimes I realize that is why he both human and divine. When he treated the Canaanite Woman that why I remembered the time he was angry in the temple and was yelling and throwing tables around like he was a crazy, strong, madman.
But people make mistakes, and they should be forgiven. I think that is the difference between being human and divine. As human we sin and treat others horrible. we hurt them intentionally or unintentionally, but it doesn't mean we should give up hope. Everybody deserves a second chance, actually so many chances as they need. That is the difference. If we really want to be like God we should forgive and give chances. I know there is a saying about fooling a person once, twice, and thrice...but I think forgiving a person is something that should never stray our hearts, even if they don't deserve it.
Erika and Kat: The homeless and the needy. Sometimes I feel compassion and sometimes I do not because I see some of them more than once a week. Some are truly in need of help, while others are asking for money to buy drinks w/o knowing any better. It's true though so mnay people ignore them. I remember I was in the car with someone, and they got so scared they locked the doors.
But I remember another time, we were drving and there was a person in need on the other side of the road. And my friend's dad went the other direction from the place we were suppose to go. So I was thinking where is he going? And he turned around just to give that person money. I have never forgotten that kindness and forgiveness in his heart.
Erika and Jill: Yes, I also noticed that the disciples do not really know what there mission is. As human, I just think they were so proud to be in the presence of Jesus w/o knowing who he really was. And I remember reading passages in Luke, that made me think the disciples were selfish, and their only concern was who was the greatest amongst them.
Many of us our “shocked” because of the way Jesus is presented in the story. I feel he did no wrong. He neither acted like the men of his time nor as a supposed human. The woman was obviously yearning for help, but Jesus knew what was too happen. He did not want to encounter the women to let her know the truth, but she came looking for it. Everyone doubts his righteousness yet if we are all equal then why does he still talk down to all those in the temple who were gambling and working dirty business. Jesus does not condescend to the level of humans in this chapter. He tries to stray away from a confrontation, but he cures her daughter nonetheless. Is that not enough? Jesus is the messiah and the king if he were to act a certain way it is because he obviously knew what he was doing. I also interpreted as the daughter was possessed by the devil, maybe Jesus was direct the words towards Satan. That’s a different thought to think about.
I have heard this scripture reading many times before and honestly the more I hear it the more it upsets me. I have to a Catholic school since I was in kindergarten and have since learned that Jesus is always welcoming to all, especially those that are not accepted by the community. I was taught that Jesus loves everyone and therefore wants to help everyone and anyone that goes to Him for help. This person that goes to Jesus is a Caanite therefore the community looks down on her and she is also a woman so automatically she goes down on the social scale. It didnt make sense to me that he would practically tell her that he wasn't here to help her kind; that he didn't want to wait his time on her. Aren't we all God's children?
I hadn't really thought about the possiblity that Jessu was just trying to make her faith stronger or really see how strong her faith really was like what Erika had said. I also agree with her that Jesus was acting like a regular guy at the time or even now, but we expect a lot more from Jesus because he is our savior, the son of God.
I agree with everyone here that this chapter was shocking. Jesus having that type of thoughts towards women? Are you kidding me? I have never heard such a thing. Growing up I have learned that Jesus loves us all, regardless of race or gender. But hey, this is something new to swallow. I agree with Erica. Back in those days that was just a typical thought of a woman that was in a mans mind. That still doesn’t justify His thinking of such, human or not. Reading this chapter basically made me realize that Jesus was a human like all of us. Yea sure he had his faults like everybody else.
again sorry i'm late :]
chapter 5:
as many have been saying, i was shocked as well that Jesus acted this way. it seems hypocritical because we are taught that Christ accepts all who want a change. yet in a way, it shows His "humanness". Like Kat mentioned, a perfect analogy was McKenna's referance to homeless people. I can admit that i have turned the other cheek because of even fear of another individual. So who am i to accuse someone of being a hypocrite. We are all not perfect and yes it is inevitable that we will all mess up. It is up to us though to look at the positive things in life instead of the negative. If not, we'll never get out alive.
to be honest im not shocked at was jesus said because i know he far from perfect.for most of his life between his birth and his death wasent even accounted for so i know he lived a normal life and chances are if we go back in time we probably couldnt pick him out of the crowd if we tried. and he acted towards the caananite women like other guys in that time did.which is a bad thought but what did you expect he was raised up around them just like if he was raised up in this time either he could have respect for woman or not and at that time he didnt learn from the right people and didnt go down the right road when it came to his opinions on woman.and its true at times i do ignore the homeless asking for money but i do try to give whatever i got.because it may not change my life but it can darn sure make them happier or give them a better meal or a better place to stay.
At first, i responded typically. This is not the Jesus I'm used to. To be honest, the words cold, uncaring, heartless came to mind. i was literally going to put the book down and read it later. But then i thought, come on, there has to be an explanation, especially if theres a whole chapter dedicated to this story.
It is so true that in many stories in the gospels, we forget that Jesus was human, a person like any one of us. He got tired, annoyed, bored, anxious, sad, etc. But even if he was tired, annoyed, etc, he was still expected to "turn on" his sympathy and regard for others. I know when I am having a bad day, i tend to act harshly towards people who are completely independent of the situation. It is human to do this. This book is teaching me to look more deeply into stories of the Bible because thats where most of the meaning lies. When Jesus' situation is explained, the stories turns around and makes sense to me.
sorry once agin with this blog beign so late well after reading chapter 5 i have to say i wasnt that surprised on how Jesus treated her because we have to remeber he isnt only 100% devine but also 100% human so he can make mistakes from time to time. i agree he had alot to worry about he was getting rejected back home, he wasnt home , he wanted to be alone to pray and think over all that is happenign and remeber his mission and what would be his next step then this lady comes by asking for his help plus he doesnt even know her that sound like us with homeless peopel asking for money on the curve we push them to the side and treat them like dirt because we dont know them as well but the difference of what Jesus didd and what we do most of the time he turned around and said what the yet she really needs my help and believes in me let me help her enstead of going on his way leaveign her there with her child taken over by a deamon. that shows us no matter how busy are lives might get we always have tiem to stop and help other especially does that are worse off then us and also i agree no matter how long ago you meet smeone they always leave a good or bad impact in your life it all depends on how you treat them and how they treat you in return.
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