SAINT ELIZABETH OF PORTUGAL (OPTIONAL MEMORIAL)

They begged him to leave. 

In today’s Gospel, Jesus heals two demon-possessed men who were so savage that no one could travel along the road they inhabited. You’d think the townspeople would be thrilled to have their road back. Instead, they are so afraid that they ask Jesus to leave!

Why were they afraid? Well, Jesus had just been responsible for the loss of a major source of food and income for them—the herd of pigs that perished in the sea. They probably also wondered what kind of person could command demons. Maybe Jesus would harm them as well. They may have also been suspicious of the two men that Jesus had healed. Were they really better? Would they become possessed again? How could the townspeople ever welcome them back into their community?

In short, Jesus had upended their way of life, and the townspeople were afraid of the change. They were used to the way things were; they had even learned to live with the demoniacs. There was probably some value in what Jesus did, but the uncertainties outweighed the positives.

We can view this passage—and many others—as evidence that Jesus didn’t come into the world to tell us that everything’s okay. He came to change us, and change is always challenging. But just as the townspeople had become accustomed to the demoniacs, we can become accustomed to sinful patterns that have taken root in us. The demands of the gospel can make us feel uncomfortable and even afraid. Is Jesus really someone you want to get close to? What if he asks something of you that you are not willing or able to do?

But you don’t have to turn Jesus away as the Gadarenes did. If there is some sin in your life he is asking you to deal with, go ahead and take a step toward making that change. It may feel as if you’re venturing into uncertain territory, but that’s what walking in faith is all about. It’s trusting that the One who created you and who saved you continues to hold you in his love. And that’s something that will never change!

“Jesus, help me to embrace the change you desire for me.”

Genesis 21:5, 8-20
Psalm 34:7-8, 10-13
Matthew 8:28-34