Different Reactions to Jesus

MORNING

Read Luke 8:36-39

Devotion

I may have given the wrong impression. It would be easy to think from the devotions this week that ripe fields mean that everyone is just waiting to hear about and respond to the good news about Jesus. However, as this reading brings out (and you already know), the presence and power of Jesus are both attractive and disconcerting. The man whose life had been dominated by demons welcomed Jesus’ work in freeing him and offering him a new start. On the other hand, the locals struggled with events they saw as dangerous and wanted Jesus as far away from them as possible.

This is often the case. Some people will welcome the good news about Jesus and others will be threatened by it. Keep praying that people's eyes will be opened to the love and power of Jesus, but don’t expect that this will always produce a positive response. The reactions of our friends are not under our control. If the Gerasenes rejected Jesus Himself, then it’s likely we will sometimes find the same response when we witness about the Jesus we love.

But this shouldn’t stop us. Jesus’ instructions to the delivered man were explicit. Despite the negativity in the region, he was to tell everyone he knew about what Jesus had done for him. The people God has placed around you may not always appreciate God or the church, but they can’t deny your experience of Jesus. You may not be able to answer all their objections, but you can share about how much Jesus has done for you.

Prayer

It would be so good if everyone could know Your love and experience Your grace. But I live in a world that is often suspicious, cynical, and even antagonistic towards You. Please help me not to become defensive, but to appreciate what You have done and are doing for me. Help me to keep lovingly sharing this good news with those around me no matter how they react.

Today’s Bible Focus

“Go home and tell how much God has done for you.”

LUNCHTIME (or when you can make a moment during the day)

1. Meditate for a short time on today’s Bible Focus. Let it seep into your heart.

2. Look and see what is happening around you from God’s perspective and listen to see whether God is whispering anything to you.

3. Pray for any not-yet Christians God has placed on your heart.

EVENING

1. Remember: Repeat today’s Bible Focus.

2. Reflect: Reflect on the day and thank God for what He has said and done.

3. Repent: Check where you have neglected or disobeyed God during the day and ask for forgiveness and freedom.

4. Release: Name any concerns or fears on your mind and release them to Jesus.