April 14

Mark 5:1-20 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

Mark 5:5-9
Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones. 6And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. 7And crying out with a loud voice, he said, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me." 8For he was saying to him, "Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!" 9And Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" He replied, "My name is Legion, for we are many."

Observation

On both occasions in Mark 4 and 5, we encounter Jesus in unusual situations. Whether he calms the storm (Mark 4) or casts away demons (Mark 5), something about his presence allows for unearthly things to take place. In Mark 5, Jesus is encountered by a man with an unclean spirit. And the spirit within him (Legion) is one who recognizes Jesus from afar. And instantly, he runs toward Jesus seeking safety. The interesting thing about this encounter is that the Legion does not want to fight Jesus, but automatically seeks mercy. More than the acts and the behavior of the man with unclean spirit, it is the mere presence of Jesus that makes demons tremble before him. This must have been an incredible site for the power of authority was not on the action of the one commanding it, but it was on Jesus himself. Jesus' presence was all that was necessary for the demons come crawling before him in fear. All two thousand unclean spirits were sent away immediately by Jesus' command.

Application

This is an amazing site. Jesus has full control over the supernatural world. He does not even have to say the first words for the demons to recognize him and tremble before him. Jesus' presence already makes a difference. And to know that this same presence lives within me is even more amazing! That Jesus, who knows all the natural and the supernatural world knows and loves me in an intimate way. Demons tremble before him and at the sound of his name. And yet, I need to understand and realize the sheer power of Jesus in my life who is able to protect me by his presence that is alive within me.

Prayer

Jesus, you are everything that I want to be and even more. And the things I do not have control over, you are fully in control. So Lord, I do pray that I would live in your presence and experience the power of your presence daily. That your presence will affect the way I think, speak and act. And that you'll empower me to know that in your name, all things will bow at your feet.

--calebskim