The word rollercoaster comes to mind. This chapter has been a combination of massive highs and lows. Today just continues the wild oscillations from exultation to despair.
The very next day after the mind-blowing events on the mountain top, Jesus comes across a boy afflicted by demons that the disciples couldn't shift. No doubt while Jesus had been away they'd tried their best, but they'd ended up hot and bothered, and the boy was no better. Now they were wishing that the crowds would melt away so they could enjoy their humiliation in peace.
Jesus gives vent to a rare moment of exasperation: “You faithless and corrupt people! How long must I be with you and put up with you?” Then swiftly he acts to put the boy out of his misery.
Luke has repeatedly told us that Jesus doesn't just cast out demons, he casts out difficult demons. We've had Legion, the mad foreigner, and now we've got a case where others have tried and failed.
Jesus is demonstrating that he can tackle the hardest cases without breaking a sweat.
But for all this, I can't help wondering: is Jesus feeling the strain? His opponents are increasingly resistant, his closest friends, while supporting him, are clearly miles away from understanding him. Jesus has been riding the wave of popularity, but it is showing signs of sweeping him out of control. Only his Father really understands, really sympathises, really cares.
No comments:
Post a Comment