“When Jesus stepped ashore, He was met by a demon-possessed man from the town. For a long time this man had not worn clothes or lived in a house, but had lived in the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell at His feet, shouting at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don’t torture me!” For Jesus had commanded the impure spirit to come out of the man…..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 8:26-39

This is really a story about God’s heart and to what extent He will go to rescue one human being. What a God, what a Rescuer, what a rescue, what a story! some of what we can reflect upon and ponder in this encounter includes:

God
  - From God’s compassionte perspective, rescuing and restoring one person is worth whatever it takes.

Adversary
  – Always be alert for the Adversary’s backup plans. If Plan A doesn’t work (the storm), there is often a Plan B (boars).

The Value Exchange
   – 2,000 “boars” can be more highly valued than one incredibly rescued human being – Agriculture versus people.

Human Condition
   – Our fear can cause us to become paralyzed and stay in the boat.
   – How easily we can withhold compassion and marginalize people who are not like us?

Rescue and Restoration
   – God’s plan of rescue and restoration is centered in the person, power and word of Jesus Christ.
   – God doesn’t just rescue people. He restores them as well.
   – God wants us to share our unique story of rescue and restoration to whoever will listen.