Reflection from my reading in Mark 5:1-20 in the One Year Bible New Testament.

A famous story about Jesus healing the man oppressed by many demons is a powerful display of Christ’s power. Jesus makes the demons leave the man and sends them into the pigs. This angered the townspeople and they asked Jesus to leave. Here’s where the part of the story that I want to focus on picks up…

Send Me, I’ll Go

“As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him.” Mark 5:18

Now, generally this is what we look for in a follower, right? We look for someone who has been radically changed and eager to go anywhere. But Jesus had a different plan for him.

Go Home And Share

“And he did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” Mark 5:19

Jesus knew that this man would have a greater kingdom impact if he stayed around his hometown and told his family all Jesus had done for him.

Sometimes those willing to go overseas are called to be missionaries to their hometowns. Some people who may want to be leaders in the church will be called to lead their own families.

Marvelous Results

“And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled.” Mark 5:20

He obeyed Jesus and God used him in his hometown area called the Decapolis (which means the 10 cities). We don’t know if he traveled between the cities or how many he visited, but we do know that his ministry was fruitful.

Sometimes the most effective thing you can do is go to your hometown and share the good news of what Jesus has done in your life. The people who knew you before and after your life change will be amazed at what God has done!

Is Jesus calling you to stay as a missionary to your hometown?

 If so that’s the most effective thing you can do.

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