Finishing up his lesson on what is "defiling" and what is not, Jesus sets off to a region that might be considered "defiled." The text explains Jesus' presence in that disreputable corner of the countryside as part of his effort to lay low and remain anonymous. Certainly in the midst of this primarily Gentile region of Tyre, tucked away in the quiet of a private home, Jesus might have expected to snatch a few days of solitude and silence, avoiding the constant recognition and perennial crowds. But Jesus "cannot escape notice" (v.24). His reputation as a powerful healer has permeated even this culturally distant region. Almost immediately a person in need presents herself at his door.

Both healings described in this week's gospel text are requests on behalf of someone else. In this first st…