DAY 226- BIG PICTURE IN A YEAR - THE LAND
Reading: Matthew 8:28-34; Luke 8: 35-37
Today’s focus is on the area called the Decapolis, which translates as ‘the place of ten cities’. What had become an unhappy stormy boat trip seemed to get worse when Jesus and his disciples crossed over to the ‘Gentile area’ of the Decapolis on the Gentile side of the Sea of Galilee. This was not a place most Jews wanted to visit!
Once there, two violent demon-possessed men met them. Jesus demonstrated his kingly authority by driving out the demons and sending them into a herd of nearby pigs. In doing this Jesus was dispossessing Satan of his kingdom and demonstrating one of the main reasons why he came to Earth – to destroy the works of the devil. Where Christ reigns, Satan has no power.
The comments that the demons make in our reading for today are significant for they testify of Jesus' true identity and mission; He is the Son of God (Messiah) who will judge the living and the dead at the appointed Day of Judgement. The reaction of the town is not clear in Matthew's account but it is clear in the parallel account found in Luke 8:35-37. Great fear seized them and they asked Jesus to leave their region. Jesus shows Himself to be a gentleman who is patient and does not force Himself upon the crowd but respects their wishes. (Interestingly, Jesus did return to this area later, after the healed men had had a chance to testify of him, and many in the Decapolis put their faith in Jesus at that time).
The showdown between good and evil points forward to the decisive victory Jesus will have over the forces of evil in the future.
Prayer:
Dear Father, a legion of demons is a scary thing. We are glad to have Jesus, the King, on our side! Thank You for Your protection and care over us. Amen
FOR THE FAMILY
Watch the video below together and discuss the identity of Jesus and his power and the love that God has for all people