The seasons are changing. Tree leaves show an array of colors from green to a bright range of gold and red. Sandhill cranes and other migratory birds are winging their way south.
The weather is getting cooler as well as the days getting shorter. In fact, the weather changes from one day to the next and sometimes even in the same day. Strong winds and pouring rain come quite frequently.
I remember a storm told of in the Bible. The disciples and Jesus were in a boat crossing a large lake. The wind and waves got worse, enough to cause fear in the hearts of these fisherman. Jesus slept in the boat while they frantically rowed for shore.
A man from Gadara sat on the hillside watching the storm rage on the waters. He could identify with the small ship being tossed in the storm. He felt the struggle that his life had become. What may have begun with curiosity of the occult resulted in chains and bonds, both spiritually and literally. He was captive of forces beyond his control. His family, friends, and the whole village were terrified of him and his rages. No comfort or convenience awaited him in the cemetery where he lived. Day and night he cried out as he tore his clothes and cut himself.
On the small ship, the disciples toiled on in despair. The boat began taking on water. Finally, one awoke Jesus with a shout, “Master, carest thou not that we perish?” Jesus arose and showed that he is indeed Master when he said, “Peace be still.” The “great storm” became a “great calm.”
Their astonishment matched their relief. “What manner of man is this, that even the wind and sea obey him?” they exclaimed to one another.
The man on shore was just as astonished as the men in the boat. The wind ceased and the boat continued across the lake in calm waters. That was the kind of change he was longing for, to have peace and quiet. When the ship made it to shore, the man ran to it and he worshipped Jesus. Many changes had come to him in recent times with where and how he lived. Now greater changes were to take place.
Jesus delivered him from demon possession. He became peaceful, modest, and sane. He was no longer tortured in his mind and spirit. People came from the village and saw him, “sitting and clothed, and in his right mind.”
Jesus restored him to his family. The reunion must have been joyful and jubilant. He went and told the whole village about the “great things Jesus had done unto him.”
Jesus does good and great things. Many benefited from his healing touch, comforting words, and resurrection power. He does care about you and the storms you face. Worship him and follow his word for great changes, positive changes he can make in your life.
Mitch Glover is pastor of the Sterling Pentecostal Church located on Swanson River Road and Entrada. Services on Sunday include Bible classes for all ages at 10:00 a.m. and worship at 11:00 a.m. Thursday Bible study is at 7:00 p.m. (sterlingpentecostalchurch.com)
