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What is one of the craziest or strangest things you’ve ever seen? Something so unbelievable that if somebody else told you the story, you’re not sure you’d believe it. It’s just…too out there. Too unimaginable. Too far-fetched to be real. But because you experienced it, you know it really happened.
We read an event like this in Mark 5. A man who is has strength beyond measure and is clearly distressed approaches Jesus and begs Him to leave him alone. Jesus, being God in the flesh, speaks to the demons controlling this man with tremendous authority. The evil spirits then possess over 2,000 pigs and send them hurtling over a cliff to their deaths.
For the pig herders, this most certainly would’ve been one of the strangest, most unbelievable events they’ve ever seen. And they responded in the way many would expect – they’re afraid, and they beg Jesus to leave them alone.
The formerly possessed man, however, isn’t afraid. He’s free. Not free to go and do whatever he wants. Not free to live a self-centered life. He’s free from the influences of evil. Free to share with others his story of God’s mercy.
READING & JOURNALING:
What are three ways in which God’s mercy has impacted your life?
Are you taking opportunities to enthusiastically share these moments with others?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, today I’m simply grateful for the reminder that I am not only free from the influences of evil, but am also free to share Your wonders and mercies with others. Help me to grow in being more and more enthusiastic about sharing with others the ways Your mercy has impacted my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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