Our Path to the Cross - 40 Days of Lenten Reflection | April 20
By Stephanie Huber
Psalm: 93, 96, 34
Old Testament: Jeremiah 6:9-15
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
Gospel: Mark 5:1-20
Have you ever tried scribing? I urge you to take one of the texts for today, whichever one God puts on your heart, and scribe it. Hand write the text, word for word, into this blank space, or on another piece of paper. Take the time to let the Word, God-breathed scripture, flow from your hand and allow God to speak new meaning into your heart as you write.
Reflections on Mark 5:1-20:
During Lent we often think of things that we should do without, or commit to a certain spiritual discipline to focus on for forty days. This Lent I am drawn in awe of the combined almighty power and gentle mercy of our Lord Jesus.
I want to draw your attention to the interaction between Legion, the demon-possessed man, and Jesus in Mark 5: 1-20. Jesus and His disciples had crossed the Sea of Galilee into the region of Gerasenes, and Jesus had no more than stepped out of the boat when the demon(s) approached Jesus.
Scripture tells us that the demon-possessed man actually RAN and FELL ON HIS KNEES in front of Jesus, and shouted at the top of his voice: “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?” I am struck by that question! This demon, who serves Satan and is an enemy to God, RUNS TO MEET JESUS, falls down at Jesus’ feet and “shouted at the top of his voice, ‘What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?’” And Jesus does not respond in rage or wild accusations. As one confident in God’s supremacy, He simply evicts the demons from the man and asks, “What is your name?” (v. 9)
For some reason I am inspired by this scripture to know that I can boldly run to Jesus even when I feel overcome by sin. I already know that Jesus died for us, He saved me, it is finished! Do I have anything to fear by laying myself at Jesus’ feet and crying out, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?” When I am brokenhearted and crushed in spirit (Ps 34:18), is there anything He wants more?
Let us remember of our Lord Jesus, the Son of the Most High God: “The Lord redeems His servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in Him.” (Ps 34:22) Glory to God –“The Lord reigns” (Ps 93:1)!
