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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

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.” Mark 5:18b-19a

Read: Mark 5:1-20

Listen: Mark 5

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Crossing the lake into Gentile territory (see Decapolis on page six of your journal map), Jesus is approached by a man who lives in the tombs. The man is possessed and tortured by a legion of demons who are destroying him. Having mercy on him, Jesus casts out the demons who enter a nearby herd of pigs, destroying them instead. Notice all of the action words to box and describe on page 49 in your journal.

What happens next is surprising. Terrified by this miracle that affects their economy, the people beg Jesus to leave. They care more for the pigs than the man. Begging to go with Jesus, the man is told to stay and tell his story of mercy and redemption to these unbelieving people who are very far from God.

Sometimes God tells us to stay. Even though we want to move on, he wants us to remain in our neighborhood, church or company where we already have a spiritual impact. Jesus desires our help to multiply his Kingdom. His message of repentance and eternal life is for everyone.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Spend some time asking God where he wants you to stay and be his ambassador. Ask him to bring people into your life you can encourage spiritually. Be open to his leading and rely on his promise, “you will do greater [works] than mine” (John 14:12).

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.