40 Days of MiraclesPrimjer

Jesus Casts Demons into a Herd of Pigs

Jesus and His disciples take a boat ride and are immediately greeted by a man who has been wholly abandoned by society. No one knows what to do with him. He's dangerous, possessed by many demons, and seems to have lost every semblance of humanity. Jesus immediately seeks to drive these demons out, but then the demons present an odd request. They want to be sent into a herd of pigs rather than just driven out. Jesus complies. In both the healing and heeding of the demons' request, Jesus demonstrates compassion for the most unlovable creatures. Though we might never directly interact with demons or exorcise any, Jesus' actions remind us of the unconventional love and care we are called to as His followers.

Questions for Reflection

• What stands out to you in this story?
• What questions do you have about the events described here?
• What do you think the demon-possessed man's life was like after this miraculous encounter with Jesus?
• Who in your life/our world today might be viewed similarly to the demon-possessed man?
• Do you feel like God is calling you to live, act or think differently because of this passage? Why or why not?