Gospel MATTHEW 8:28-34

When Jesus came to the territory of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs who were coming from the tombs met him. They were so savage that no one could travel by that road. They cried out, "What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the appointed time?" Some distance away a herd of many swine was feeding. The demons pleaded with him, "If you drive us out, send us into the herd of swine." And he said to them, "Go then!" They came out and entered the swine, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea where they drowned. The swineherds ran away, and when they came to the town they reported everything, including what had happened to the demoniacs. Thereupon the whole town came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him they begged him to leave their district.

Reflection

Jesus got rid off the demons, one would think there would be some rejoicing. Yet, there was no thank you, no clarification, no questions from the town people. Instead, they begged Him to leave their district.

The demons pleaded for mercy and the town begged Jesus out of fear. It appears that their livestock was more important to them then living among demons. Perhaps, they were afraid that Jesus would be doing more exorcism at the cost of their swine. I would imagine that if they have asked Jesus, He would have given something back that would be more valuable than their swine as He does not take things without reason. That is, Jesus may have intended to open-up the road so that people can be free and grow; the demons were stopping the town from doing trade with other towns as they did not allow anyone to travel that path.

Let us pray,

When we are afraid and lost

Help us to have courage to ask you, O Lord

Your grace answers our pleas