Jesus and his disciples got off the boat in Gerasene, and a demon-possessed man came to them. The townspeople tried to help him by tying and binding him so that he wouldn't harm himself and others, but their efforts failed. The man broke the iron chains and lived among the tombs, crying and cutting himself with stones (5).

People feared and avoided him, seeing the demons that were controlling him. However, Jesus saw him as a man created by God. When Jesus asked his name, the man realized what had been controlling him. One may argue if it was really necessary for Jesus to allow the demons to possess and then drown the pigs at their request. It sounds too costly. However, Jesus shows us that restoring one man's life is more valuable than any material sacrifice. Jesus' sacrifice to give himself up on the cross further proves his desire to save us from the sin of the world at any cost.

The man wanted to follow Jesus. However, Jesus saw that he was ready to be an apostle who goes into the world to witness the grace he has received.


Application: Father, thank you for your grace of freeing me from Satan's grip and restoring my love relationship with you. Please use me as your witness.
One Word: How much grace I have received