Mark 5:1-20. And when he stepped out of the boat, immediately a man out of the tombs with an unclean spirit met him.

As Jesus steps out of the boat, a crazy man rushes toward him, jumping, shrieking, waving his arms. To the disciples he is a loathsome menace to be overpowered or fled from. But Jesus sees past the filth and ravings. He sees a suffering child of God. His whole being goes forth in a mighty wave of pity, trying to penetrate the frightful exterior. His only thought is to help. That is love in action; Christ coming to the outcast.

You may have some repulsive disease; you may be disgusted at your sin; others may have imprisoned you as a threat to their safety; because of your color they may treat you as only partly human; you may live in poverty or squalor; your mind may be unsteady. But Christ sees in you one who can become a strong, useful child of God. He offers you his friendship, his power, his love, a share in his work. Will you accept it? Will you believe in yourself as Christ does and let his companionship make you what you might be? (1936)

PRAY for the Diocese of Boga (Congo)

Ps 75, 76 * 23, 27; Genesis 43:16-34; 1 Corinthians 7:10-24