Refleciton: Matthew 8:28-34

13th Week in Ordinary Time – Matthew 8:28-34

Today we have the story of two demoniacs who came out from the tombs to meet Jesus. At times, these men would be savage! Thus people who normally traveled this road would take other routes just to avoid the demoniacs. As Jesus approached, the demoniacs saw him and called out: “What do you have to do with us, Son of God?” These men were frightened of Jesus, yet they called him the “Son of God.” They believed that Jesus had come to torment them.

Jesus took pity on these men. Near the demoniacs was a herd of swine. The demons spoke to Jesus and said: “If you drive us out, send us into the swine.” In reply, Jesus spoke only two words to the demons: “Go then!” Immediately the demons went into the swine and rushed down into the sea, where they all drowned.

The men who were herding the swine ran away. They returned to town, and told everyone they met what had happened to the demoniacs and the swine. Rather than appreciating what Jesus had done for these two men, the townspeople were filled with fear. They went out to meet Jesus and begged him to leave them. Rather than being awed and amazed, the people were afraid of Jesus and his power.

Ask yourself: are you fearful of Jesus’ power? Or do you hope and pray that he will also drive out your demons? What are the demons you wish to be rid of? I assume each one of us has at least one demon that we struggle with. Or we may have more than one!

Demons are powerful. If we are not watchful, our personal demons will begin to control our lives. At these times, we need to turn to Jesus and beg him to drive out our demons and to once again set us free. We may try to manage our demons on our own. However, most often, they are too powerful for us. We need to turn to Jesus and ask him to cast out our demons or at least help us gain some control over them.

Today I invite you to take a few moments and ask yourself: What are my demons? How are they controlling my life? What is the damage they are doing to me and to the people I care about? Then take a few moments of quiet. Thoughtfully ask Jesus to drive out your demons, to heal you and to free you! Then sit quietly in Jesus’ presence for 5-10 minutes. Take in Jesus’ peace and love. Rest in him! This alone may drive out a few demons!