Luke 8:38-39–The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, 39 “Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city how much Jesus had done for him. 

You may have people in your life that you have tried to invite to church, and it just seems like a lost cause.  But have you ever thought, that God maybe pressing it upon you to be His missionary disciple where you are?  That maybe He is challenging us to be His body, an extension of Himself to proclaim His goodness?

If we see our influence as the Bible describes it, we would embrace the responsibility to be built up from church, that we be equip to be Christ witnesses where we are.  But much like this man, we can misinterpret our responsibility as disciple’s, to not only be with Jesus, but be put to work where we are for the gospel…

Like this man, we can represent Jesus in a place, where Him being the focal point can be too intimidating.  That is what is church is like for most unbelieving people.  Much like this city of Gerasenes, where they were not used to the presence of God. Seeing Jesus work this miracle in this demon possessed man, made them afraid, not rejoice…(Luke 8:37)

The city of Gerasenes is like the world we all work and live in.  That people are more used to darkness, than the light and power of Christ.  Jesus was too much for this city, but He empowered a resident to stay and witness His presence to them.  Are you seeing yourself empowered like this man?  If so, stay where you are, and be the church for them to witness His power working in your life, that He be glorified.

In His Love, Ld