It is obvious that it was divine power working through Jesus that expelled the demon out of the man who could not speak. Jealousy or spitefulness could explain the ridiculous claim of some that Satan had control over Jesus and that Satan was using Jesus to cast out his own band of devils from people who were possessed. Yet Jesus still finds it necessary to show how stupid their claim is by using the image of a house that is divided against itself. Jesus is really talking about the need to trust that, through faith in him, God has embraced us with the power of divine love. It is to trust that any troublesome demon that has invaded our space can be dispelled. It is to believe that God’s love is so powerful that evil cannot overwhelm us. It is to stand with Jesus and to join with him in drawing others into the protective power of the God of life. We live in an age when mental illness has become far too prevalent in our society. There are all kinds of reasons and I have enormous respect for therapists and counsellors who journey with people struggling to find meaning in their lives. Still, from personal experience, faith in Jesus and the power of prayer does work. Don’t expect miracles even though these can happen. But support those who are being helped to deal with mental issues. Don’t cross boundaries. Let those who are trained do their work. And sit quietly and patiently with those struggling to find hope. Your presence and prayer can be an additional source of powerful healing.
Tom Rouse
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