260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 52 - Luke 8: Women, Dirt & More Miracles

I hope as we are reading we keep in mind the big picture – that Luke is one of four Gospel accounts, each of which are “manifesting” God to us, i.e…..Jesus is God! That all these miracles and stories are meant to bring us onto a relationship with the Author!
We begin with 3 short verses on Jesus ministering to some women. The Jewish culture was degrading towards women but here Jesus lifts them up as equals. This would have been a huge and welcome change for women at that time.
And ohhhh - the parable of the four soils. Are we talking about believers & unbelievers? Is it an allegory? There are lots of differing interpretations on this one. Best to stick with the one Jesus gives here! I think the overall point is this: God wants us to allow His Word (the seed) to impact our lives and the lives of those whom we come into contact with (Knowing Jesus & Making Him Known). This makes us His “true family” (vs 21).
Then, because Jesus is God, telling the wind and water to “chill” is not a problem for Him! (Side note – He again addresses their faith). Because Jesus is God, He has authority over……... ummm…….. everything & everyone! So demons tremble as well as obey. And read what he told the formerly demon possessed guy, “Return home and tell how much God has done for you.” JESUS did these things and, oh yeah, Jesus is God!
And I’ve had a cuts that have bled for a while, but not for 12 years! But somehow, knowing Jesus could help her, she touches Him and is healed. And Jesus commends her for what? Her faith! Then, as he addresses Jairus the synagogue ruler about his dead daughter, Jesus again makes it a faith issue, “…just believe and she will be healed.” And ya’ gotta love this scene: Jesus tells them all, “stop wailing” and “she’s just sleeping.” They’re all laughing at Him until she suddenly stands up – WOWSA!
SO WHAT?!
*What is your view towards the women, the downcast, the “freaks” of society (in those days demon-possessed)? God always went to them and showed them love & help. Who is it today that you can reach out to? Lord, send me the students in town that no other church wants!~
*Are you & I humbled by the greatness of Jesus? I hope we are and I pray it drives us to our knees in gratefulness each day! Let’s Know Jesus and Make Him Known!