This image in Mark’s Gospel of Jesus seizing “Legion” and casting him into the swine is a scene straight out of a horror film. You can practically hear the swine squeal as they plummet off the steep bank and into the sea. Sister, close your eyes and just hear Porky squeal and do a little cheer, please! This is by far the best exorcism recorded in Scripture, and I celebrate it with a plate of bacon as I share this with you.
Now, we can choose to focus on the evil that possessed the man, or we can focus on my favorite verse from this Gospel, “Go home to your family and announce to them all that the Lord in his pity has done for you” (Mark 5:19).
Why does it seem sometimes that we prefer to focus on the chaos Satan creates over the miracle Jesus performs? He freed this man from a legion of demons! A legion is an armed regiment of nearly 6,000 Roman soldiers, so this was a massive departure of evil spirits from this man’s soul!
For some reason, we fall into the trap of preferring drama over healing, fear over peace, conflict over freedom. Even when God has performed great miracles in our family, careers, friendships, health, and spiritual lives, we chose to hold tight to the pity party rather than celebrate God’s mercy, truth, and love for us!
Sister, I have been hurt, rejected, and manipulated and went on to use these situations and relationships to guard my heart so no one else will hurt, reject, or manipulate me again. They are large and small stones I have built around the garden of my heart.
But the Lord wants to till the soil of my soul and yours. He wants to take the dung in our lives and use it to fertilize a lush and vibrant garden.
He respects our free will and only does that when we choose to focus on the grace God pours over us versus the manipulative lies of Satan.
The Lord wants to till the soil of my soul and yours. // @socaltriciatClick to tweet
Will you allow Him in today?
Tricia Tembreull is a seasoned ministry professional dedicated to guiding young hearts toward spiritual growth, healing, and the love of Christ. With a background in youth and young adult ministry, Tricia has served in various roles, including as a youth minister, college campus ministry at USC Caruso Catholic Center, and Regional Director for Life Teen International. As a devotions writer for Blessed Is She, she shares scripture reflections that resonate deeply with women of faith. Recognized as a compelling Catholic speaker, Tricia challenges audiences to embrace their faith with authenticity. Additionally, as a spiritual director, she provides compassionate support to those seeking deeper connections with God. Currently serving as the Coordinator of Young Adult Ministry and Evangelization for the Diocese of Orange, Tricia continues to inspire young adults to embrace their faith journey with zeal and purpose, embodying a commitment to spreading the gospel while fostering communities of love.
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