Luke 8:26-39
Introduction:
This morning, we will look at a powerful story where Jesus meets a man who is very broken and hurting. In a World full of pain and suffering, this story shows us that Jesus does not stay away from our wounds. He comes right to where we are, whether we are hurting physically, emotionally, or spiritually. His love and compassion can change even the most broken lives. Let’s remember that no one is beyond His reach and no brokenness is too big for His grace. Psalms 34:18.
1. He meets us at the worst of our condition.
That man was naked! He was wild and lived in graveyards/tomb. Vs. 29 – he was totally uncontrollable since he was under a total possession of the evil spirit. He must have a very dirty and disgusting man that no mere human wants to associate with him.
Yet, Jesus met him and spoke to Him. What matters the most for Christ? The soul of the man. His current earthly condition may look horrifying and disgusting to us – but Jesus looked deeper than what we see without any judgement. He sees the need for the soul to be saved. Unless he is saved – his condition will be worse in eternity – hell fire.
Lesson 1: You can come to Jesus just as you are with all your brokenness, hurts, pain and disgust. He is the lover of your soul who can save you and transform all your circumstances in just a moment. He doesn’t judge anyone who comes to Him just as they are.
2. He is a God who restores not only our flesh but also our dignity!
Jesus is not only concern about the end but also of the present state of a person. No matter how great your brokenness is, He is able to restore them.
This demon possessed man was totally insane and uncontrollable. But the moment Christ encountered Him – everything changed! Vs. 35 – He became calm and composed sitting at the feet of Jesus. He who was once naked is now dressed. Jesus even restored his dignity and turned him into a reputable man. Not only changed his destiny but Jesus also gave the man his lost dignity in life. Only Jesus can do this.
Hebrews 4:16.
Lesson 2: He is a not only a God who saves but also restores our lost dignity in life.
3. Your tragedy will be turned into testimony
The man who Jesus healed and restore his sanity and dignity begged to follow Jesus. Vs.9 – Jesus tell him to return home and testify the goodness of God.
The man would have been so excited to be part of Jesus’ mission. Going around with Him and do great things. But Jesus said – go home glorify His name where you are. Your mission is around you! You have been saved and dignified so that you will glorify His name where ever you are. You don’t need a mission or a specific platform to serve Him and glorify His name – you can share about His goodness where ever you are to whomever you meet.
Lesson 3: Your transformation must become your testimony
