Today we are studying Mark 7:24 – 30, an amazing story of Jesus interacting with a non-Jewish woman.  That fact, that Jesus is talking to someone who is not Jewish, and a woman no less, is something certainly to note.

Look back at last weeks passage (Mark 7:1 – 23) and think about how this week’s event illustrates some of the teaching from that passage.  Specifically what took precedence over the washing of hands?

In this passage even Jesus seems to be surprised by the woman.  It is not clear why he traveled to this location, maybe it was to get some long sought rest, but even outside of his home region people have heard of him and seek him out.

What do you make of the way Jesus spoke with this woman?  What do you make of the woman’s persistence?

Now think back two weeks with the disciples in the boat – Jesus is still trying to get them to have faith in him – what does this woman display?

Many of Mark’s episodes contrast those closest to Jesus trying to figure out who he is, to have faith in him – while those furthest away seemly readily accept him.

Having offered that observation what is the difference between a disciple and someone who comes to have their need filled?  What will it mean for the disciples when they accept who Jesus really is – what does it mean for you?