One Story at a TimeSample

From Desperation to Deliverance

As we’ve seen throughout this plan thus far, Jesus is relentless in His pursuit of individuals. Especially with those that seem beyond the reach of hope. In Mark 5:1-20, we find the extraordinary account of Jesus reaching a man tormented by a legion of demons.

As Jesus stepped ashore to the region of the Gerasenes, He was met by a man possessed by an unclean spirit. This man had become a prisoner of darkness, living among the tombs, forsaken and isolated from society. His entire existence is marked by pain, torment, and despair. Yet, Jesus pursues this man. Almost immediately, this man falls at Jesus’ feet and says “What do You want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In God’s name don’t torture me!” Jesus’ response was asking him his name. “My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.”

I love that instead of asking what was wrong with him, Jesus asked what his name was. Of course, the demons inside of him responded. But let’s remember this when loving the world around us. You may notice people struggling with something, but find out who they are. Ask them their name. Offer friendship before you offer a solution to their problems. They may not care what you have to say about their problem until they see you care about them.

So, Jesus confronts this legion of demons within the man, commanding them to leave. With one word from Jesus, the man was set free from his captivity. The significance of this encounter goes beyond the immediate deliverance. Jesus not only rescued the man from his physical and spiritual torment but also restored his dignity and purpose. Later in the chapter we see this man, once naked and chained, now sitting clothed and in his right mind, transformed by the power of Jesus.

This transformation can happen with someone in your English class.
This transformation can happen with someone in your math class.

As powerful of a story as this is, it is even more powerful to understand that this was all Jesus did on this trip. He traveled in a boat to this region, did this miracle, and then left. He did not go on to “bigger and better things” on this trip. He did not perform more miracles in this area. He made this trip for one person.

If your impact on the Kingdom of God looks like one person this school year, walk in God’s calling for that one person. Teach that Bible study. Start that Bible club. If you reach one person, reach them well. Love them well. We may encounter individuals who are struggling with addictions, mental health challenges, or various forms of oppression. Instead of shying away or judging, let us remember that Jesus reached out to the demon-possessed man with love, understanding, and healing. We, too, can be examples of His love, offering hope and pointing them towards the One who can bring true freedom and transformation.

Every story matters. Every individual matters. It may seem inconvenient to go out of your way to do something big for one person, but that’s exactly what Jesus did. He made this trip for one person. What are you willing to do to reach one person at your school? What are you willing to do to reach one person in your community?

God’s love knows no bounds, and His power to deliver and restore is limitless. May we open our hearts to His touch, allowing Him to bring deliverance and transformation to our lives. And as recipients of His grace, let us extend that same love and compassion to those around us, sharing the life-changing message of hope found in Jesus.

Prayer:
Jesus, I see in scripture what You did for this one man. Thank You for Your relentless pursuit of us. I see that You care for us deeply. Help me to reflect Your love to those around me today. Help me to show others that I care for them - because You care for them. Help me to shine Your light to those around me. I ask that You would give me wisdom in navigating challenges people face, and give me compassion to treat people the way You do. In Jesus’ Name, amen.