February 27, 2018
Luke 8:26-56

“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 (NIV)

Jesus has just done the most miraculous thing. He has rescued a demon possessed and out of control man from a life among the tombs. Jesus has restored and radically transformed his life into a witness for the Lord.

The healed man wants to join Jesus’ traveling group of disciples, but Jesus has another calling in mind. Someone must be left behind to share what God has done in the area. That is the man’s task. He does that and more, preaching and proclaiming what Jesus has done for him.

Not everyone is called to a mission field far from home. Sometimes Jesus wants those who have experienced his goodness to tell those in their own hometown about him. Some are called to go; others are called to stay. This newly healed and transformed man simply needed to start sharing — which, in fact, he did. He could not tell the story of God’s work in his life without discussing Jesus.

What was your life like before you met Jesus? How is he transforming you?  Who do you need to tell about it? You don’t have to go far. Start in your home town.
 
Devotion by John Newell