September 9, 2015
Scripture Reading: Matthew 8:28-34
28When he arrived at the other side in the region of the Gadarenes,two demon-possessed men coming from the tombs met him. They were so violent that no one could pass that way. 29“What do you want with us, Son of God?” they shouted. “Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time?”
30Some distance from them a large herd of pigs was feeding. 31The demons begged Jesus, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of pigs.”
32He said to them, “Go!”So they came out and went into the pigs, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and died in the water. 33Those tending the pigs ran off, went into the town and reported all this, including what had happened to the demon-possessed men. 34Then the whole town went out to meet Jesus. And when they saw him, they pleaded with him to leave their region.
Questions for Reflection:
What did the demon-possessed men call Jesus? How did they know who Jesus was? Isn’t it interesting that while others were still unsure of who/what Jesus was that the demon-possessed men knew?
What did the demons suggest that Jesus do with them? How did Jesus respond? What was the result of the demons moving into the pigs? How did those tending the pigs respond? How did the town respond? Why do you think tney “pleaded with him to leave their region” even after this powerful act? Why is it that we get uncomfortable when God moves powerfully in our midst?