Jesus’ Life-Changing Miracle: Confronting the Unclean Spirit

Jesus demonstrated the profound depth of His teachings through a life-changing miracle. He encountered a man suffering from an unclean spirit, a situation many might avoid or be fearful of. However, instead of stepping away, Jesus confronted the man’s condition head-on.

It’s easy to picture how one might shy away from someone in such a troubled state, but Jesus didn’t do that. He approached the situation with authority and compassion. His command was simple but direct: He ordered the unclean spirit to be silent and to come out of the man. It was as if Jesus was the commanding officer, with the same certainty and decisiveness as a police officer ordering a criminal to comply. Just as the officer would handcuff a wrongdoer and remove them from public view, Jesus took command over the unclean spirit, removing it from the man who had allowed it to take dominion over him.

Through this encounter, Jesus revealed the power of His word and the transformation He brings to those who are suffering. He didn’t just heal the man’s body, but also restored his soul and spirit, showing us the deep, life-altering change that can occur when we allow Jesus to confront and cleanse us. 

Jesus’ authority over evil is a reminder that no matter how deep the struggle, His power is greater according to Mark 1:21-28. 

As in Luke 4:31-37, Jesus commands a demon to leave a man’s body, and it obeys without hesitation. As the demon is cast out, something extraordinary happens—the man is left unharmed. No scar, no damage, just a complete restoration of his health and well-being. The power of Jesus’ words is evident, as He not only expels the demon but also redeems and heals the person entirely.

This moment is more than just an isolated event; it’s a powerful reminder of the authority Jesus has given to His followers. Through His redemptive work on the cross, Jesus has empowered us to do more than just watch from the sidelines. He has granted us the authority to drive out demons, heal the sick, and care for the broken-hearted. 

Even today, this power is available to those who are born of God and believe in the redemptive work of Jesus. If you have faith in what He accomplished on the cross, you too can command unclean spirits to leave in Jesus’ name, and they will obey you. The authority of Jesus is not just something of the past—it’s alive and active in the lives of believers today.

As followers of Christ, we are called to walk in that same authority. Just as Jesus demonstrated His power over evil and restored health to the suffering, He has entrusted us with the ability to bring healing, deliverance, and hope to a hurting world. Whether in our daily lives or in moments of spiritual warfare, we can boldly declare the authority of Jesus, knowing that His name has the power to transform and restore lives. 

The King’s Healing Light

In a land not of our own, as written in the great oracles, there existed a kingdom waiting to be unveiled, a place where every shadow of sorrow, every spell of misery and darkness is made void. From the guise of a humble mortal shall emerge a force of unimaginable might, destined to bring this wondrous realm into being upon the earth. His kingdom is a beacon of hope, will shine forever, untouched by the passage of time. His kingdom never fades and will last forever.

Those who yearn to seek, to embrace, and to serve the true King shall find their place in this enchanted land, standing bravely against all trials and tribulations of their mortal journey. Even in the face of adversity, they will remain steadfast within the warmth of his kingdom, forever guided by his radiant light and the promise of adventure that awaits.

People of all ages, burdened by various ailments and pains, gathered before the King. Each soul yearned to cast aside the heavy stone of misery and death. As foretold by the ancient oracles, a miracle unfolded for each of them. The King healed them all, leaving no one behind. Not a single person could claim that their pleas were ignored; each was met with kindness and grace. All received the precious gifts of health and wholeness, and no one could declare, “I am sick.”

He was and is worthy of worship, adored for his incredible power. Every illness and affliction that sought to consume the weak was vanquished. The frail were made strong again.

He restored minds once broken by torment, curing seizures and raising the paralyzed, transforming them into living marvels. Those tormented by demons, driven into chaos and despair, found solace; their psychosomatic suffering vanished completely. There remained no trace of illness—only the faint echoes of a past now healed.

That is my King Jesus Christ ! Taken from Matthew 4: 23, 24. 

Image courtesy : Joe from Pixabay

Ruth’s Loveliness: The Graceful Stranger

Ruth’s reputation for kindness was widely known in Naomi’s hometown. However, Naomi, Ruth’s mother-in-law, became increasingly bitter over time. She carried the weight of her uncertain future, grieving the loss of her husband and two sons, and enduring the hardships of life and emotional distress. Ruth faced the challenge of living with a bitter individual, an experience that may not have been pleasant.

Despite being advised to leave Naomi and pursue a prosperous life as a young widow, Ruth chose to remain by her side. She refused to give up on her identity and stayed in her rightful place. As a foreigner and stranger in the land, she had little reason to depend on her deceased husband’s family. The family’s wealth and reputation had diminished, and their desires went unfulfilled. Nevertheless, Ruth did not return to her parents and her homeland. Instead, she extended kindness to her mother-in-law (the only existing member of her deceased husband’s family).

Ruth’s good deeds and kindness earned her commendation. Boaz, recognizing her goodwill, believed that the Lord would reward her for her faithfulness and kindness. Despite her circumstances, Ruth determined that her identity was to position herself and find safety and protection under the wings of the Lord. She displayed determination, purpose, kindness, adaptability, and grace, pushing her limits and embracing change.

May we also seek solace in our Heavenly Father’s love, just as Ruth, a stranger, found favor and peace beneath God’s wings.

Taken from Scripture:

11 And Boaz answered and said to her, “It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, and how you have left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and have come to a people whom you did not know before. 12 The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.”

13 Then she said, “Let me find favor in your sight, my lord; for you have comforted me, and have spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your maidservants.”

Boaz’s Boundless Grace : A Tale of Freedom to a Love-lost Woman

Ruth was profoundly moved by the genuine kindness demonstrated by Boaz. She felt a deep sense of humility. The remarkable generosity he showed towards a woman of a different language and background left her astounded. It was a favor that went beyond the confines of traditional stories, transcending the boundaries of culture, language, and upbringing that separated Ruth and Boaz. This newfound wave of mercy felt divinely inspired to Ruth, for it was a form of grace that was truly unique within their nation.

Never had Ruth envisioned encountering a man so kind-hearted, who not only offered her grains and food but also provided guidance on finding the right companionship and offered advice to ensure her safety and protection from harm and danger. In a world where women often found themselves vulnerable and prone to being misjudged and mistreated, the hope that Boaz extended to Ruth was a beacon of light. His words of caution served as a shield, discouraging any ill-intentioned men from taking advantage of her. This is a tale of kindness and freedom to a love-lost woman.

As seen in this Scripture verse – 10 At this, she bowed down with her face to the ground. She asked him, “Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me—a foreigner?”

The freedom bestowed upon a foreign woman like Ruth by Boaz was a manifestation of grace. It exemplified the essence of Jesus, the epitome of grace, who bestows freedom and life upon all. The life-giving actions of Boaz revealed a personality characterized by grace. The true and perfect grace person is Jesus Christ.

Boaz’s Leadership: Establishing Boundaries and Inspiring Reverence

9 Watch the field where the men are harvesting, and follow along after the women. I have told the men not to lay a hand on you. And whenever you are thirsty, go and get a drink from the water jars the men have filled.”

Boaz urged the men to abstain from any acts of unkindness towards Ruth. He encouraged them to work alongside women and treat them with respect. He specifically instructed the men to fill water jars for the women workers to drink from. Ruth, being single was advised to follow along after the women and to interact with women. Boaz established a certain dynamic among his workers when Ruth became part of the group, ensuring her safety and setting boundaries for the men working with her. This truth about Boaz deepens the admiration and reverence for him as a leader. He paves the way for Ruth to find her place and establishes her boundaries. By following his wise counsel, she could thrive day by day without lacking anything.

Furthermore, Boaz exhibits similar qualities and attributes to Jesus Christ. Just like Jesus, Boaz genuinely cared for others and understood their cares and concerns. Through the Holy Spirit and by the grace of Jesus Christ, you can have hope for the future.

Boaz’s Benevolence: A Tale of Kindness, Hope, and Enchantment

So Boaz said to Ruth, “My daughter, listen to me. Don’t go and glean in another field and don’t go away from here. Stay here with the women who work for me. 

Will someone extend kindness to a widowed woman with an unfamiliar voice? Boaz exemplified grace by extending his kindness to a complete stranger. In a world that seemed devoid of hope, he spoke words that breathed hope into her soul. He provided guidance emphasizing the path to receiving goodness and genuine contentment which is essential for everyday life.

Initially, she may have felt excluded among the workers, but his words spoke of inclusion in a diverse world. He called her like a caring father. He offered a helping hand to ensure a bright future for her and provided counsel for her safety. He didn’t leave her feeling isolated and lonely but instead placed her in the company of other women. This showcases the beautiful mind of Boaz, the reflection of Jesus Christ.

Such is the true essence of loveliness of mind of Christ.

Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

Delighting at Our Future

Taking delight at the thoughts of our future is an attribute of mind of Christ.

If you are building a house, do you take delight in the thoughts of a housewarming party? Do you imagine your neighbors joining in and kids playing around? Or if you are engaged: do you take delight at the thought of togetherness, love, having abundance & increase in health & wealth? Or do you feel anxious and worry?

You can be still, take delight, be thoughtful and rejoice. Jesus rejoiced at the thought of saving mankind of their sins, rebelliousness and its consequences.

Hebrews 12:2

fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Have a wonderful week!

Vacation: Days of our Lives

Days relentlessly waiting for vacation was soon fulfilled and our souls were truly satisfied. God made perfect everything that concerned me over our vacation period. Our scenery shifted from Australian outback to lushful & cool landscapes in South-India.

Ice-cold waterfalls showering on warm & sunny days at Courtrallam & Gundaru dam-Gopal private waterfalls with families, followed by dining our favourite parotta at Border Rahmath. Well-known Boat-house at Allepey backwaters with superb hospitality & serving those native Karimeen fried fish; speed boating with our families, bought fresh catch of the day “yabbies”, followed by music & games with families. Cool air & unforgettable fresh new mornings at the resort, beautiful misty mountains at Munnar hillstation, nature’s rich bounty with tasty palm fruits & fresh coconuts, visited Mattupatty dam, boating & safari to Eravikulam National Park, watched beautiful native species Tahr goats and relaxed at serene resorts, explored Tea Factory. We celebrated the oneness with lots of native food & thanksgiving, sneaked into Cowboy Adventure Park (loads of fun there!). We embraced long awaited family get-togethers (yearning for each other for years since Covid lock-down); not to miss the hustle & bustle of Bangalore city, heart-warming hospitality & food,  fun filled barbeque at twilight with dear family, memorable days at Bannerghata National park & safari; watched celestial objects at sky theatre at Jawaharlal Nehru planetarium, good load of family meals, shared cooking, nanna co-sleeping, shared valuable & favourite childhood nibbles, shared “nephews” proud moments, heavy purchases, made into heavy laden travel bags, meet up with close friends & mentors, packed our bags and flew back to Australia.

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,  James 1:17

Boating – Mattupatty dam

Lushful Munnar

Niligris Tahr at Eravikulam National Park

This vacation as a period of rest & enjoyment was a gift from God.

Thanks be to our Heavenly Father for his words spoken over my life.

If God had not been on my side, I would have had nervous breakdown by now.

His peace prevailed over the storm.

His grace kept me going.

His thunderous silence calmed me down.

His still voice still speaks in my deepest of heart.

Thank you Heavenly Father for your kindness & goodness.

Your love reaches down to the depth of my heart where many sorrows are buried.

Because of your unfailing grace, I have not been wandering with a broken heart.

Truly my Heavenly Father cares for me! Grateful for the rest which I received from Jesus Christ.

It’s Possible

..destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction. Joshua 7:12

You cannot stand against your enemies until you remove it. Joshua 7:13

We can see the thoughts of God clearly in these Scripture verses. There is something in your midst that eats you up. It keeps you occupied. Your focus shifts and it aims at your well-being and harmony. It targets your growth. It can only bring you down but never build you up. God says destroy whatever among you that is devoted to destruction. Put an end to it.

Continue reading “It’s Possible”

CARETAKER-FRIEND

A relaxing time with a friend,

A friend you deeply love,

Enjoying journey with him.

 Drop him off, only to pick him up again.

While silence remain, opportunity knocks for more.

You can walk with him eternally.

For there is One who said,

“Whoever believes in me

Shall have eternal life.”

One solid choice to make,

One quick step to take,

One word “Yes” to say,

To believe in the One sent from above

His name is Jesus Christ

Born of virgin Mary,

Over shadowed by Almighty

Peace be yours!

His will be done.

Your friend is forever yours.

Together as One family

Of our Heavenly Father.  

(Holy Scripture – John 3:16)