Family Activity

Pets and Putdowns

In the gospel from Matthew, Jesus insinuated the Gentile woman who wanted a miracle was a "dog." But what did he mean? Was it a put-down? Or, was it a challenge to faith? The woman took the title as a challenge with her body language and response. She was like the faithful pet who received scraps from the Master's table. (Notice the Eucharistic overtones!)

Many of us have pets. In a way, our pets are mirrors of self esteem. The way we treat our pets is the way we treat others and ourselves. Do we abuse our pets? Call them names? Or, do we praise and pamper them? How do they respond? Use these questions with your family as you review the gospel and the meaning of the word "dog." Does it denote a faithful family member? Or a derogatory remark?