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Chapter 6—Saved to Serve
It is morning on the Sea of Galilee. The light of the rising sun
touches sea and land as with a benediction of peace. Jesus and His
disciples have spent a tempestuous night on the water, but as they
step upon the beach they are greeted with a sight more terrible than
the storm-tossed sea. From some hiding place among the tombs two
madmen rush upon them as if to tear them in pieces. Hanging about
these men are parts of chains that they have broken in escaping from
confinement. Their flesh is torn and bleeding. Their eyes glare out
from their long, matted hair. The very likeness of humanity seems
to have been blotted out. They look more like wild beasts than like
men.
The disciples and their companions run away in terror, but
presently they notice that Jesus is not with them, and they turn
to look for Him. He is standing where they left Him. He who stilled
the tempest, who has met Satan before and conquered him, does
not flee before demons. When the men, gnashing their teeth and
foaming at the mouth, approach Him, Jesus raises that hand which
has beckoned the waves to rest, and the men can come no nearer.
They stand before Him, raging but helpless.
With authority He commands the unclean spirits to come out of
them. The unfortunate men realize that here is One who can save
them from the tormenting demons. They fall at the Savior’s feet
to ask for His mercy. But when their lips open, the demons speak
through them, crying, “‘What have we to do with You, Jesus, You
Son of God? Have You come here to torment us?’”
Matthew 8:29
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[45]
The evil spirits are forced to release their victims, and a won-
derful change comes over the demoniacs. Light shines into their
minds. Their eyes beam with intelligence. Their countenances,
long deformed into the image of Satan, become suddenly mild. The
bloodstained hands are quiet. The men lift their voices in praise to
God.
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