February 8

When Jesus arrived on the other side in the region of the Gadarenes, He was met by two demon-possessed men coming from the tombs. They were so violent that no one could pass that way. — Matt 8:28 BSB

It seems as if Jesus crossed the sea just to heal these two demon-possessed men. After He had healed them, He returned.

Even one act of kindness is worth a great effort when someone is in trouble. These men had been a terror to their community, but Jesus left them sitting in peace, clothed and in their right mind. He can take the most hopeless situation and restore it to beauty.

The healing of the paralyzed man was also an example of vicarious faith. His friends carried him to Jesus, and it was when Jesus saw "their faith" that He healed the man.

There is great power in intercessory prayer. Our deepest need is not physical healing, but the forgiveness of our sins. The man’s friends wanted him to be healed of paralysis, but Jesus first addressed the greater issue—his sin.

When we’re sick, it’s not enough to ask for physical healing. We should first ask for the forgiveness of our sins.