What a memorable story from Jesus’ healing ministry! Can you imagine having witnessed such a spectacle? It’s hard to picture a herd of 2,000 pigs, much less watch them dash off a hillside to their death. What do we learn about Jesus in this reading?
He certainly wasn’t afraid of the known strength of this madman; instead showed mercy to a man cast out from society. He wasn’t afraid of the angry herdsmen who would have lost their livelihoods. And, surprisingly, Jesus was no longer welcome in that region, presumably because he had upset the normal flow of the region and a miraculous healing was not enough.
Followers of Jesus would be getting used to a “new normal” as they watched Jesus interact with the world. They would have witnessed the evil spirits again, recognizing Jesus as the Son of God. You’d think these disciples would have been curious about how these demons came to have such knowledge.
Rather than hide his identity, Jesus encouraged the healed man to tell everyone of the mercy he had received. How do you think this man felt to be delivered and redeemed from such a life of isolation, pain, and horror? Certainly, the man’s testimony and response to what Jesus had done speak volumes. It was news too good to keep to himself.
The poor pigs were simply in the wrong place at the right time. Where else would Jesus have sent these demons? Once released from the demon-possessed man, those little devils would have been searching for new hosts. It’s important to keep our guards up we don’t appear weak to the evil spirits lurking in our world. We can call on Jesus to be our strength.
Finally, we look at the man now rid of his demons. At last, he could be the man God meant him to be. His purpose was about to be revealed. This man had been in shackles that could not hold him; the evil in him was so strong. And now that evil was gone. There was no more hiding, self-destruction, or feeling alone. Jesus had given him a new chance at life. God’s power was evident for all to see.
It was certainly a divine appointment. We may not have Jesus physically present in our hour of need, but we can be certain that we are never alone. We have those holy encounters anytime we turn to prayer, worship, or spend time in the Word.
Do you need a touch of healing from the Mighty One? Do you feel like demons are clouding your thoughts or judgment? Don’t let the shackles of life hold you back from what Jesus wants for you. It’s time to tell others about how Jesus is changing your life one day at a time.
Let’s pray. Father, I thank you for each divine appointment we share and for each time you have rescued me from evil. I want to be on a mission to tell everyone about Jesus, just like the man who was healed of his demons. Give me boldness and opportunity. Help me never cower or be discouraged. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
