Luke Chapter 8: 24-27 (NIV-UK)
When Jesus stepped ashore, he was met by a demon-possessed man from the town. For a long time this man had not worn clothes or lived in a house, but had lived in the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell at his feet, shouting at the top of his voice, ‘What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don’t torture me!
Luke Chapter 8: Verses 34-37 (NIV-UK)
When those tending the pigs saw what had happened, they ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. When they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus’ feet, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. Those who had seen it told the people how the demon-possessed man had been cured.Then all the people of the region of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave them, because they were overcome with fear. So he got into the boat and left.
Even during Jesus’ time on earth, people reacted differently. The demon-possessed man threw himself at Jesus’ feet. He was at rock bottom. What did he have to lose. But the people of the area were afraid. They were more concerned about what had happened to the herd of pigs (which were unclean animals for Jews and so shouldn’t have been kept) than being able to rejoice at the healing and transformation of a desperate man. They were so afraid that their lives would have to change that they sent Jesus away. The transformed man on the other hand begged to go with Him.
Sometimes today people are afraid to throw their lot in and follow Jesus, because they are worried about what they may have to give up or what their changed life might cost them. Even Christians can still get anxious when God points out an area of life that needs to change, and some, rather than telling God about their fears, choose to withdraw. But look at what the man gained. Listen to the testimonies of Christians from all different backgrounds and circumstances. They gained far more than they gave up and they have no regrets. I wonder if the people of the Gerasenes later regretted their decision to send Jesus away. They were the ones who missed out. God has given us far more than we have given up for Him. I for one have no regrets!
Dear Lord,
I am grateful for everything You have done for me. I’m also grateful that when You point out areas in my life that need to change, it’s for my benefit and allows me to live my life the way You intended me to, and therefore I have no cause to be afraid. Amen.