Mark: Living the Way of Jesus in the WorldSample

First Thought

Jesus’ destination across the lake was the largely Gentile area of the Decapolis, ten towns to the northeast of Galilee. Immediately, Jesus was confronted by a wild spectacle of a man emerging from the tombs. With his supernatural strength, howling, and self-harming, the man was a social outcast, a hopeless case. He was possessed by demons, so many that they could take over an entire herd of pigs. Notice how Jesus not only exercises power but restores the man’s humanity with clothing and community, as well as to his right mind. Notice Jesus’ distinct lack of concern about being with a man who is the epitome of uncleanliness. The evidence around Jesus’ identity is mounting. As in the earlier account of an exorcism (1:22-27), the demons know who Jesus is. They are powerless in the face of Jesus. Yet the people’s response is overwhelming terror. They want this disruptive Jesus gone. 

What Does the Bible Say?

What strikes you about Jesus’ mighty deeds from the three miracle stories in chapter 5?

Living it Out

Is there an area of your life that you need Jesus to restore? 

Responding in Prayer

Almighty God, I praise you that your power is greater than all other powers and authorities. This is an area of my world that I’d love to reclaim for the kingdom of God (…). Thank you that you’re with me. Show your power, I pray. Amen.