We all have demons that possess us which affect our relationship with Jesus.

 
Reading: As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him.  Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” Mark 5:18-19.
 
Good morning, happy Monday, and many blessings my dear family.
 
Today’s Gospel (Mark 5:1-20) is the story of the man who had an unclean spirit.  This man had been dwelling in the tombs.  His disorder was so severe that no one was able to restrain him, not even with a chain.   
 
When this man caught sight of Jesus, he ran to Him, threw himself on the ground, and cried out: “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?

As Jesus was leaving the town, the man he had healed came to him.  The man wanted to follow Jesus.  However, Jesus gently told the man to go home to his family.  He was to announce to them what Jesus had done for him.  The man left and did as Jesus requested, and he proclaimed the wonders that Jesus had done for him.  Mark writes, “All were amazed!”
 
 Today take time to remember some of the wonders that Jesus has done for you throughout your life.  Some of the wonders may have been life-changing events.  Other wonders may have been more subtle and may have taken place over a period of time.  Do you proclaim the wonders Jesus has done for you to the people in your life?  Do you share with your family or friends how Jesus is present to you and how Jesus is blessing you?
 
Do you ever experience yourself being tormented by guilt from the past, by inability to do what you wish to do, or by fear of the future? Do you feel sometimes that you are living in a tomb, in a lifeless situation? If so, you can identify with the unfortunate demoniac. You may feel Jesus is at a distance, but run to him and beg him to liberate you. He wants you to be free and will heal you. Then you too can ‘go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you’.
 
This scene portrays for us a very powerful example of Jesus setting someone free from the demons that possessed him. The story becomes more relevant when we acknowledge that we all have demons that possess us which affect our relationship with Jesus.

Today, take time and remember the many blessings you have received throughout your life.  It may be the gifts of family, good health, a good job, or dear friends..  Thank Jesus for the abundance of your blessings.  Most of them may seem like small gifts; however, good things often come in small packages.
 
Blessings,
 
Luis+