The Gospel for Pentecost 2 is the fascinating and somewhat strange story of Jesus healing the demoniac in the pagan region of the Gerasenes, across the sea of Galilee (Luke 8:26-39). One could analyze the details and implications of the healing. But today, I would focus on two points.
First, the evil spirits recognize and acknowledge who Jesus is. This is a warning for those who think that simply admitting that Jesus is the divine redeemer is enough. On the contrary, such an admission is only a little part of true faith. The demons do not have real faith but only make a grudging admission of a fact. Living faith goes beyond the facts and acknowledges Jesus' identity with a positive, trusting, and hopeful attitude.
Secondly, there is the reaction of the surrounding population. They are fearful of this manifestation of divine power and of the cost that freedom from spiritual bondage may involve. They prefer to see a man remain a slave to evil than to lose a few roaming swine. They prefer to remain in spiritual bondage themselves than to open up to the message and mission of Jesus the Christ. Although such a response is ridiculous and self-destructive, it is all too common among human beings. Often people prefer to remain in a familiar bondage to evil than to open themselves to the costs of redemption.
Thus, like many Scripture passages, our gospel from St. Luke contains both warnings and encouragements. Let us avoid confusing admitting who Jesus is with true faith in Him. And let us avoid letting our fears deprive us of His redeeming activities among us. Instead, let us truly turn to Him in faith, and let us be open to His work even when there may be a cost.
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