Jesus heals a boy with an evil spirit. Luke 9:37-45
Imaginative Contemplation
From our perspective in the twenty-first century, we can recognise that the boy in this story was suffering from epilepsy. For the people of Jesus’ time, such a person was seen to be possessed by an evil spirit. The disciples had tried to cure the boy without success. Was it because they did not have the necessary medical knowledge?
Enter into the scene
I had heard about this miracle-worker some time ago, and wondered if the stories about him were true. You see, I don’t believe everything I hear these days, especially since my son has become so ill. He is a beautiful child and I love him dearly. But over the past few years, he has been acting very strangely. At times his face pales, his body becomes rigid and then he begins shaking violently and he foams at the mouth. This lasts for some time, and then he calms down and lies on the ground, utterly exhausted. People ask me what I have done wrong, or is it the boy who has sinned? I don’t believe this.
A few days ago, the boy was very unwell again. In desperation I took him to Jesus, longing for a cure. But Jesus wasn’t there. I met some of his followers, and I begged them to see if they could cure the boy. They laid hands on my son and ordered the bad spirit to leave him. But nothing changed. Was it their lack of faith? Was it my lack of faith? I was devastated. My last chance, and nothing has changed! I turned away, trying not to hear the would-be healers’ comments.
As I began to return home with my son, still dazed and stumbling, I sensed a change in the crowd. Someone touched my arm. ‘The Master is here! Won’t you take the boy to him?’ My heart leapt within me. Turning around quickly, I steered the boy to where Jesus was standing, obviously waiting for us. ‘Please, oh please help me! My only son, so sick! No one can help him! But I believe you can!’ I dropped to my knees on the dusty ground. Jesus turned to his disciples. ‘Oh, where is your faith? How long do I have to be with you before you grasp my message?’
Then Jesus turned back to us, helped the boy to his feet and blessed him. The boy was cured of his epilepsy forever! This had nothing to do with sinfulness, but everything to do with faith.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· Do I believe that sickness, misfortune and poverty are a punishment from God?
· Do I believe that God can bring good out of suffering, misfortune and death?
· Can I recognise the opportunities for growth that can be found in difficult circumstances?
· How can disability be seen as a blessing?
· Do I view the cross of Jesus as a failure or a blessing?
Prayer
Lord, increase my faith in your loving kindness and your saving grace. Amen.