Jesus Heals the Two Demoniacs

Text: Matthew 8:28-34

Reflection and Question: As word spread about Jesus’ teachings and works, not everyone wanted to join in. In Gadara, Jesus had healed two demoniacs possessed by unclean spirits by sending the demons into a herd of swine. When the swineherds reported this healing (or, perhaps, the loss of their livelihood) in the town, the people came out to implore Jesus to leave their neighborhood. We hear nothing more of the demoniacs. Would you be one to flee from or run towards Jesus’ miraculous healings?

Prayer: Brother Jesus, our Healer and Savior, the unclean spirits in Gadara knew You immediately. We look at Your love and mercy in freeing these two people from their suffering, and hope is renewed in us. May your healing hand touch us in our need, too. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).