JESUS once said, “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where they can be eaten by moths and get rusty, and where the thieves break in and steal” (Matthew 6:19, New Living Translation). In other words, don’t value dispensable possessions too much. That’s common sense, right? Evidently not, for JESUS wouldn’t say something if no one needed to hear it. It’s sad, but some people cherish their possessions more than the presence of GOD.
The Gadarenes, the supporting cast in today’s text, fall into this category. They witnessed the incredible power of JESUS: HE cast devils out of a demon-possessed man. They had the SAVIOR at their disposal, equipped to work miracles, but they begged HIM to leave. They were angry because their pigs had drown (see Mark 5:13), and they wanted JESUS to leave before HE caused further damage. They were so attached to their possessions that they missed an opportunity to enjoy CHRIST’S presence!
JESUS also said, “And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul in the process?” (Matthew 16:26, New Living Translation). So check your possessions; make sure you’re not so attached that you can’t part ways. It’s CHRIST, not material possessions, that makes the difference!