Word on fire is brought to you by Catholic cemeteries, serving the Chicago area since 1837.

This is Cardinal Francis George, and I invite you to join me for the next few minutes to

reflect with Father Robert Barron on the Word of God, which is the Word on fire.

Father Barron will challenge us to open our hearts to the Word on fire, which is God's

Word of Love for each of us.

If our hearts are open, the Lord can change and transform us, clearly might speak with

love about the one who is love.

The Archdiocese of Chicago through the generosity of Sacred Heart Parish in Winetka now presents

the Word on fire.

Peace be with you.

Friends, the Gospel for today is one that has puzzled and fascinated Christians up and

down the centuries.

And one that I've always found difficult to preach on, because people respond to it

in funny ways.

It's the story of the Canaanite woman who asks Jesus for a favor, and then is put

off by him, frustrated by his lack of response.

Remember how it begins?

Behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out, have pity on me, Lord,

son of David.

My daughter is tormented by a demon.

Now, normally Jesus responds to this kind of request.

Remember Bartomeus, son of David, have pity on me, and Jesus calls him over.

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