Amen, Beacon and Richard!
I so appreciate the way Jesus inspires hearts to come to Him for what He alone can do in the life!
"'Behold, a Canaanitish woman came out from those borders, and cried, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, Thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.' Matthew 15:22, R. V. The people of this district were of the old Canaanite race. They were idolaters, and were despised and hated by the Jews. To this class belonged the woman who now came to Jesus. She was a heathen, and was therefore excluded from the advantages which the Jews daily enjoyed. There were many Jews living among the Phoenicians, and the tidings of Christ's work had penetrated to this region. Some of the people had listened to His words and had witnessed His wonderful works. This woman had heard of the prophet, who, it was reported, healed all manner of diseases. As she heard of His power, hope sprang up in her heart. Inspired by a mother's love, she determined to present her daughter's case to Him. It was her resolute purpose to bring her affliction to Jesus. He must heal her child. She had sought help from the heathen gods, but had obtained no relief. And at times she was tempted to think, What can this Jewish teacher do for me? But the word had come, He heals all manner of diseases, whether those who come to Him for help are rich or poor. She determined not to lose her only hope." {The Desire of Ages, page 399, paragraph 2}
What really spoke to me today was this woman's "resolute purpose to bring her affection to Jesus." I have found time and again, whatever my infirmity, weakness, struggle, temptation, sickness, or need, that by bringing it to Jesus, He has healing power--the power of His love and grace--to change my heart, heal my sin-sick soul, and make me a partaker of His divine nature! The gospel contemplates our complete recovery from sin and a full restoration into God's moral image! What a privilege to know where to go for that experience--to behold the loveliness of Jesus and be changed!!