By dawn Jesus and His disciples reached the other side of the lake. As they landed, what they saw terrified them more than the storm the night before.
From some hidden place among the tombs two demon possessed madmen rushed toward them ready to tear them to pieces. Eyes glazed, long matted hair, and broken chain parts hung from them where they escaped from confinement. Their flesh was bloody from when they had cut themselves with sharp stones.
Immediately, the disciples ran back toward the boat, but they stopped when they realized Jesus wasn’t with them. Looking back, they saw Him standing there totally unafraid, raising His hand, the two madmen stopped in their tracks and could come no further. With authority Jesus commanded the demons to come out of them.
Sensing here was someone who could help them, the men fell at Jesus’ feet to ask for help, but instead demons spoke through them, crying out, “What have I to do with You, Jesus, Son of God most high? I beg you not to torment me.”
Jesus asked, “What is your name?”
They answered, “Legion, for we are many.”
They begged not to be sent out of the country, but instead into a herd of swine on a nearby hill, and Jesus allowed them to do so. Immediately panic filled the herd, and they rushed madly down the hill into the water and drowned.
But the two former possessed men were totally changed. Their eyes showed intelligence. Their faces, so long filled with satanic hatred radiated with peace and gladness. Their blood-stained hands were calm, and their voices praised God who had delivered them from Satan’s grasp.
Through different temptations Satan seeks to lead humanity to ruin. Our only safety is in the presence of Jesus.
If you have a question for Bible Mentor Marie Odell you can contact her by emailing: marieodell04@gmail.com
Marie Odell is a member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.
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