Your Pigs
Matthew 8:34 “And behold, all of the city came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him, they begged him to leave their region.” (ESV) I’ve always been intrigued by the story of Jesus healing the demon-possessed men. The demons recognized the Son of God and asked if He would send them from the men into a herd of nearby pigs. Once Jesus did, the demons achieved their ultimate goal of destruction by running the pigs over a hillside to die in the waters below. What a miracle Jesus performed! He freed the tortured men of demons. These men had been so violent that the local people could not go near the place where they were, so the healing opened the door to that area. Jesus also displayed His willingness to cross cultural and societal boundaries in order to rescue these hurting people. All the city’s people came out to meet Jesus upon hearing of the miracle.
Once the people saw Jesus, they surprisingly pleaded with him to leave—to get far away from their community. What?! No “thank you” for making this place safe again? No empathy for the men who were released from the grip of destruction? No appreciation that Jesus came to a place and touched a people that no other Jew would dare? No, because the residents were most concerned about losing their pigs. The pigs represented their wealth and resources and Jesus changed their status quo. Their response to Him was based on their loss instead of His blessing.
We too are seeing a change in our status quo and varied losses as a result of the COVID-19 health crisis. Some losses are disappointing, some life-changing and some tragic. But Jesus has not stopped blessing in the midst of your challenges! Don’t miss the Son of Man and what He is doing because you’re only focused on the pigs. He IS crossing boundaries to reach you with his love and healing hand.
For His Glory,
Lisa V Yerrick
Praises
For the 10,077 children reached this school year with the Gospel of Jesus Christ .
For technology that is allowing families, church members, friends, children, volunteers and those hospitalized to stay connected with others during this time.
For the 1,690 volunteers who shared the Gospel with children through the CEF® ministry this school year.
Prayer Requests
For God’s wisdom and discernment in planning for our summer programs. Ask that God provide us with innovative ideas, creative students (Christian Youth in Action® ) and access to children in some form or fashion this summer.
Blessings for the many health care workers who are serving tirelessly and selflessly to meet patient needs.
Health and safety for children, families, volunteers and our staff during this time of uncertainty.
That people would respond to God during this time and find peace and rest in Him.
“Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you.” - Jeremiah 29:12
