Jesus is at it again, talking with demons and casting them out. This story appears in both the gospels of Matthew and Luke as well, placed right after the account of Jesus calming the storm. Of interest is that in Matthew’s telling there are two men who meet Jesus, whereas Luke and Mark report only one. The accounts of Luke and Mark are very similar in every other way. Whether there were one or two men, the story and takeaways here are still the same.
This is another story that is very easy to imagine playing out. Mark does a good job of setting the scene; I can almost picture the demon possessed man living amidst the graves.
Was there anything that struck you in today’s reading? I had two things actually. The first was again to marvel at how the demons know EXACTLY who Jesus is, the son of God. They fear him and know he has power over them. This is wisdom we should also possess, knowing Jesus is God, and he has power to dispel the evil from our hearts as well.
Do you fear being cleansed of your evil thoughts or sinfulness? Sad to say some people do fear being restored because they have lived so long with the pain they can’t imagine what life would be like without it. It’s almost like they aren’t going to be happy unless they are unhappy. Does that make sense? Have you known people like that?
The other thing that struck me in the reading today is that Jesus gave the man permission to tell others what had happened. After other healing stories or miracles, Jesus has told them not to tell. I’m not sure what the significance here is. Perhaps it is because they are in Gentile territory (across from Galilee)?
There may also be something to the fact that Jesus chose to heal this man of his affliction. The man did not ask for healing, quite the contrary. Jesus will move when he sees the need and wants to use the situation. He sent this man on a mission to tell of the mercy God had shown. Others witnessing the event were only focused on the pigs demise and their fear of Jesus. They didn’t seem to care that their friend or countryman had been cured. This man’s testimony would set the record straight.
How are we giving our testimony to what Jesus has done for us? Do we keep silent?
Let’s pray. Lord I thank you for all that you are doing in my life. I am always amazed at the beautiful plans you have for me, so much better than the ones I had. Help me in setting goals that glorify you. Lord, I need your help to reach those goals. Fill me with the power that moved mountains. I want to make a difference in the lives of others. Show me the people to reach for you and prepare their hearts to hear and not fear. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
