Day 24 -Your Story Can Help Others

January 24, 2024

The man from whom the demons had gone out begged to go with Him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return home and tell how much God has done for you.” So the man went away and told all over town how much Jesus had done for him. —Luke 8:38-39

This story highlights one of Jesus’ more dramatic healing. The man described in Luke 8:26 -39 had not only one demon, but a legion of them. They identify themselves to Jesus this way, stating “because we are many.” This man is described as living among the tombs, isolated and chained. He’s tormented constantly, so much that he breaks free and terrifies those around him. The tombs would’ve been an appropriate place for him to live because, to the people of Jesus’ Israel, this man probably received no more thought or consideration than a corpse. The man’s reaction to Jesus’ healing is understandable.

Of course, he would want to show gratitude to the Person who changed his life. The most obvious way was to follow Him as a disciple. Jesus, though, says something that sounds strange. He tells the man to go back home. Sometimes, we have the same reaction. We meet Jesus for the first time or have a fresh encounter with Him.

We want to show our love and gratitude, so we seek something big to do in return. Maybe we want to become long-term foreign missionaries or sell everything we own to start a non-profit for the homeless or addicts. Jesus does call some people to minister this way. Yet for many of us, He has another request. He simply wants us to tell how much God has done for us.

Maybe Jesus has asked you to tell your story, and maybe you’re hesitant. You might say, “My testimony is boring” or “God did more for John or forgave Beth for more.” Don’t give in to these thoughts. Jesus gives everyone a unique story, and they all point to Him. Let yours help someone find Him today.