We feel powerless when life’s storms rage about us. Despite our best efforts, we cannot navigate those dangers without the hand of God to guide and free us.
In the gospel (Luke 8:26-39), the man with demons was unable to help himself. His affliction had caused him to be chained and shackled by his community. Yet even that could not control the raging evil within him. He remained helpless and ostracized on his own until he was emancipated by the power of God in Christ. Even though he was an outsider from the land of the Geresenes, Jesus came to his aid. He cast out the legion of demons in the man and sent them into the nearby herd of pigs, who then flung themselves off the bank. Though that dramatic event caused fear and confusion, the man was at last set free and commissioned by Jesus as a witness to his stunning liberation.
Keith shared with us yesterday Jesus’ authority over earthly things. He shared how Jesus has the authority over storms (both environmentally and personally), over other circumstances in our life and ultimately over life and death. By His authority he offers us new life, direction, blessings, healings and knowledge of the Kingdom of God. Will you accept His authority in your life and really start to follow Him?
Paul reflects in Galatians 3:23-29 on the human condition of being “imprisoned” and “guarded” and the necessity of Christ to restore us. He reminds us of the power of our faith and baptism to free and unite us.
Together, these texts recount the journey of faith from bondage to freedom, from separation to unity, from death to new life. And this is a path open to all, no matter who we are or from whence we’ve come. The scriptures energize us to join that man in the gospel who went out proclaiming “how much Jesus had done for him,” even to those who would rather not hear it. How much has Jesus done for you? Share it. Have a blessed week!
Faith Lutheran Church 