Jesus heals a man with evil spirits: Mark 5:1-20
Imaginative Contemplation
The disciples had crossed the stormy sea and disembarked on Gentile land. What could they expect from this day?
Each day is a new creation. In the morning, we think we know what the day will bring, but so often, the unexpected catches us unawares.
This day brought a frightening encounter with a severely mentally ill man. How would Jesus respond? How would the disciples respond?
The sick man, now fully healed, wanted to stay with Jesus. But Jesus asked him to be a witness for him among his own people. Does God sometimes ask me to go where I would rather not go?
Enter into the scene
Jesus and his disciples, still wet from the storm they had experienced on the lake, reached the far side of the sea. As they disembarked, they could hear demonic screaming and were confronted by a violent man, gnashing his teeth, stamping his feet and spreading deep fear in everyone.
The broken chains around his arms and feet were proof of his mighty strength as he fought for freedom. This man had terrified the local people, and now the disciples witnessed his fury as he charged up to Jesus, fell on his knees and shouted, “Jesus, son of the Most High God! What do you want with me? For God’s sake, don’t punish me!”
The disciples were very frightened, but Jesus stood his ground and calmly asked, ‘What is your name?’ ‘My name is Legion, for there are many of us. Don’t send us out of this region. Let us go into the pigs.’ Jesus let them go into the huge herd which reacted in panic, rushed down the hill into the Lake where they drowned. The swineherds, startled and fearful, returned to the Town to tell their story, and the fearful Inhabitants begged Jesus to leave them alone.
Meanwhile, the man who had been cured of his mental illness and who was now fully dressed and in his right mind, begged Jesus to let him join the disciples. However, Jesus asked him to go back and witness to God’s healing power in the local area.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
The storm at sea was a forerunner of this miracle. Do I recognise the actions of God in creation as well as among people?
The townspeople tried to constrain the sick man. His reaction was violent and uncontrolled. Do I try to help people to make free choices for the good of all?
The townspeople were responsible for a large herd of pigs. These animals were considered unclean to the Jews. Do I have areas of my life which contradict my profession of faith?
Jesus gave the demons freedom to follow their desire to enter into the pigs. Do I value the free will of others?
Do I use my free will for the glory of God?
Am I prepared to be a witness of God’s mercy and love in my local area?
Prayer
Lord, help me to place all my trust in you. Lead me to value the freedom you give and to make right choices to your greater glory. Amen.