Day 8 on the Journey

Jesus heals again – Luke 8: 11-17

Today, I got to see something powerful and amazing. Jesus encountered a raving lunatic who many times ran around naked. When this man ran up to Jesus and asked him, “What have you to do with me?” Jesus responded calmly. He said what is your name. The name was struck and confused by Jesus actions. No one had ever talked with him before. I watched as Jesus and this man had a conversation. The man was transformed and healed. By the end of their time together, the man was dressed and sitting at Jesus feet and learning from him.

The more I think about this story, I wonder which was more miraculous – That Jesus had spoken to the man or that the man had somehow regained his sanity.

What do you think?

I think I witnessed a miracle when the man understood Jesus’ care for him as a person. This man was alone and cut off from society. No one ever wanted to know his name and most were afraid of him. He was known as the madman or lunatic in the area. Jesus however wanted to know his name. Jesus changed his life.

Questions for Reflection and comment:

What else captured you in the story?

In our current society there are numerous people who may not be living in a graveyard, but who are cut off from society. Individuals who are filled with demons (hatred, addiction, abuse, etc.) which keep them isolated.

As a disciple can we be bold enough to stop and ask them their name?

Can we take time to get to know them and show them they are valued and cared for?

I think that is what Jesus is trying to teach us in this story… beyond the message of Jesus power over evil. The good news is that with Christ’s help demons can be driven out of our lives.