Pentecost Week Sixteen - Day One - A Dark Scripture

 We’re living in a world that feels heavy—a post-Charlie Kirk kind of world. It’s a world of sharp divisions, where evil feels bold and unafraid, where darkness seems louder than hope. But amid all the chaos and brokenness, there’s one truth that doesn’t change: Jesus’ light shines through.

This week, we’re stepping into Luke 11:14–23, a passage that dives straight into the confrontation between Jesus and evil. It’s dark Scripture. Evil is trying to take hold. But as we read, we’ll see the light of Christ breaking through like a lighthouse beacon pressing through the storm.

The scene opens with some action! Jesus drives out a demon, and a man who had been mute suddenly begins to speak.

The crowd is amazed. It’s a miracle—but it’s more than that.
You can kind of tell already - it's gonna be a long week!

Historical Context:
In the world of 1st-century Judea, demon possession wasn’t just seen as a strange phenomenon; it was considered a direct assault on a person’s body, mind, and spirit. For the man in this story, being mute wasn’t just a physical disability—it was a spiritual and relational crisis.

Speech was central to Jewish life. It was how people prayed, taught their children, and participated in worship. To be mute was to be cut off from the community, unable to fully engage in the life of faith. This man’s silence wasn’t just personal—it was isolating.

When Jesus casts out the demon, He doesn’t just heal the man’s body; He restores him to his community and his identity as a worshiper of God. What’s striking is how Jesus does this. Jewish exorcists of the time often relied on elaborate rituals, invoking God’s name repeatedly. Jesus, however, speaks with simple authority. His words alone are enough to drive out the demon.

This moment isn’t just about one man’s healing—it’s a declaration of who Jesus is. Trust me - we will dive into this in much more detail. For today - we can park it here!

Modern Context:
Have you all ever talked about demons?  
Becky and I locked ourselves on death row at St. Augustine's Prison once - We won't do that again!
Demons and death - this is real stuff!

Of course, it's likely not the same way today as it was in scripture, but the story still resonates deeply.  Actually, it was probably much spookier back then!

No reflections today - it's going to be an interesting week.

OK - what are you reflecting on?  I'm still remembering St. Augustine!

Prayer

Jesus, thank You for Your power over darkness.
Speak into the areas of my life where I feel silenced or stuck.
Restore me and help me to trust in Your authority.
Amen.