I read the beautiful story of Jesus healing the demon-possessed man this week (from Mark 5) and I was especially struck by the ending of the story:
“As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might stay with him. 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.” And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled.” (Mark 5:19)
It’s not that being with Jesus is the wrong thing to do, it’s just that it is a terrible tragedy when you keep the wonder of Jesus all to yourself. There comes a point when you have to leave the church service, or the Bible study, or that precious quiet hour of prayer and study of the Word—and go tell someone what the Lord has done for you.
Incidentally, GOING instead of STAYING doesn’t mean He leaves you:
“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature…”
“...and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the age.” (Mark 16:15, Matthew 28:20)
About the photos: Every year since the beginning of this blog in Minnesota, I have done a post featuring the first pussy willows of the year. I wondered if this was a tradition I’d have to end once we moved to Alaska…because did they even have willows on Prince of Wales island?
Turns out, they not only have them, but the biggest, fattest pussy willows I’ve ever seen are growing right in front of our house! If you’re curious, here are the links to all past pussy willow posts (years 2020 and 2021 you’ll have a scroll a tiny bit to find the pussy willow picture, but it’s in there)!
P.S. If you’re new here and wondering what “Project 52” is all about, you can go here to read more!
Rejoicing Hills 