In today's first reading from Hebrews 11, we read about some heroes of the Old Testament - both named and unnamed. Even though they were heroes, they "did not receive what had been promised." Jesus brought to humanity what had been promised.
In our Gospel reading from Mark 5, Jesus has an encounter with a man possessed by many demons. In fact, when Jesus asks the demon his name, he replies, “Legion is my name. There are many of us.” Jesus casts all of the demons into a herd of swine, and the man was healed. The man then wanted to follow Jesus. Read what Jesus’ instructions were to him.
This story of Legion reminds me of The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. It's a series of letters from Screwtape, a major demon, to Wormwood, his nephew and a minor demon. It reveals much about spiritual warfare. Satan has many minions. Legion and his merry band of demons were just a few. But all of the demons in all of creation are no match for Jesus. Put your trust in Him and you will be victorious.
Father, we know there are demons running amok. May we always call on the name of Jesus to have victory over them. Amen.
If your pastor isn't familiar with A Minute in the Church, get him a set today and ask him to give them to the faithful this Ash Wednesday. Order today at www.GusLloyd.com.
Thanks Gus, I look forward to these every day.