So much can be said about demons and demonic powers. It’s all around us. What do you picture when you think of demons?
Evil. Having just experienced the worst shooting in U.S. history we don’t need to be reminded that evil is alive and well.
Many of you know that David and I moved to Mexico in our retirement. People thought we were crazy and worry that we are safe here. I actually feel safer here than I did when back visiting in the United States. In either case, I know the areas to avoid, and I avoid them. That doesn’t always keep us safe though, does it?
God did not make us to live under a rock or behind closed doors. He designed us to be in relationship with him and with others. He gave us this beautiful creation to enjoy. How are you living your life? Are you feeling that God is smiling down on you? Or are you living in fear?
There is some interesting dialogue in our readings today. What things struck you or confused you? I was surprised that teachers of the law thought that Jesus was demon possessed. I suppose they thought he was the head honcho demon able to call out other demons. But that would be counter productive, in the demon world, that is. Evil succeeds when it is nourished by other evil and not called out.
Again, we see that the cloud of untruth is filling the leaders of the day. It’s hard to fathom, but it is what needed to happen to move Jesus toward his earthly goal.
The other conversation that always makes me wonder is in verses 33-35. This is Jesus talking, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” The people were telling him his relatives were waiting outside. Jesus goes on and says, “Anyone who does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.”
This is really the great promise. So long as we are all doing the will of God, we are part of Jesus’ family. We are that close to our savior. We already knew we were his “friend” but to be his “blood”. Think about that for just a moment. You are sister, brother or mother to Jesus. How does that make you feel?
Let’s pray. Lord we know that your power is so great we cannot begin to fathom. You stand over evil and all that it stands for. In the wake of an evil act, we turn to you for peace and comfort. I often wonder why you allow evil in our world, Lord. I know it wasn’t your original plan for us. I long to live in your perfect will for me. I know that by doing that I am connected to you in a strong and mighty way. Thank you for watching out for me and for giving me the fits you have given me. I pray that I will use them to the best of my ability, and all things I want to honor you, God. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
