[Manny Varela]

MARK 5 – LEGIONS

 2 And when Jesus[b] had stepped out of the boat, immediately they are met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. 3 He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, 4 for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. 5 Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones. 6 And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. 7 And 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.” 8 For he was saying to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” 9 And Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “My name is Legion, for we are many.” (Mark 4:1-8)

The Hebrews taught that a carcass, even gravesites, was a place of defilement. Because of this Levitical law, it was common for the burial grounds of the dead to be located outside the city. Outside the city gates, in some remote gravesite, dwelled a man named Legion.

Many people knew Legion as the one who “lived among the tombs” (3). Legion was known to be insane as he was tormented, night and day, by an “unclean” spirit (2). And, “night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones” (5). Because of his lewd and barbaric behavior, he was regularly bound and shackled so that he could be contained. Although he possessed extraordinary muscular strength, on one occasion, Legion broke his chains only to terrorize the townspeople.

As Jesus arrives ashore, Legion sees him from afar, and the Bible text says that Legion discerning from a distance, begins to run towards Jesus only to fall at His feet. Straightway,

Jesus commanded the evil spirit to depart from Legion’s person, and immediately, for the first time he could recall, he found peace from a lifetime of torment, suffering, and pain.

 

CHALLENGE

Although we may not be haunted by an evil spirit, in some cases, we are haunted by evil vices. Perhaps this vice has tormented you day and night, and you have longed to subdue it but cannot.

My friend, the answer is found in a name who obeys His voice at His word – even the greatest of all physical elements (water, wind, and fire). He has power over evil spirits, power over the flesh, and even power over death. What is His name, you may ask? His name is Jesus. Are you wrestling with a legion? Then cry out to Jesus in your time of need, and in His perfect timing, God will rescue you. RPF

[Ashly Jackson]

The narrative you’re referring to highlights a powerful exchange between Jesus and a man known as Legion, who is afflicted by unclean spirits. This account illustrates deep themes of spiritual struggle and redemption. Legion represents those who suffer from inner turmoil, symbolizing the battles many face against various personal vices and struggles.

In the story, Legion’s life is marked by the torment of isolation and despair—living among tombs, he is perceived as a menace to society, often restrained but ultimately uncontainable due to his extraordinary strength. His encounter with Jesus signifies a turning point; upon seeing Jesus, he runs to Him, recognizing His authority.

The message derived from this interaction serves as a source of hope for many who find themselves grappling with their own challenges. It emphasizes that regardless of the nature of one’s internal battles, there is solace and power in reaching out for help, particularly finding refuge in faith.

In moments of struggle, individuals are encouraged to seek assistance and not shy away from their vulnerabilities. Just as Legion found peace through Jesus, so can others discover healing by confronting their own burdens and seeking support in times of distress. The essence of the story acts as a reminder that liberation from suffering is attainable through faith and perseverance.

[Amy Hastings]

This devotional discusses how Jesus has the authority over the evil in our lives or in this case, Legions. Jesus helped relieve Legion of his evil spirits and this led to legion finding peace in his life finally. This story is telling me that only Jesus has the power to relieve someone who lives in despair and lift them up to their highest. This also helps me to understand that asking for help or just admitting you need help in life is better than living with the despair of not seeking help. Legion was able to get help from Jesus because he confided in him, he reached out when he needed it and Jesus answered just like he would do for anyone that can admit they need help.

[Joseph Doss]

This makes me think of not evil spirits , but our everyday struggles. Like the evil spirits within Legion, they are many but running to Jesus, he can remove them all.

[Author]

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