November 6, 2022 - Matthew 8

“When he came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him” (8:1). Shouldn’t be surprised; they had already heard Jesus teach and seen him do wonderful things. Here, in one chapter, it’s hard to believe so much could be packed into thirty-four verses. Yet, these events only scratch the surface of all Jesus did: A leper cleansed, the centurion’s servant healed, Peter’s mother-in-law healed, and many were delivered and healed --“They brought to him many who were oppressed by demons, and he cast out the spirits with a word and healed all who were sick” (8:16). And this list does not even include the event with the disciples in a boat in a storm during which “He rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm” (8:26) nor the story of the demons cast from two men into pigs. It’s no wonder at all that great crowds followed him and that wise men follow him, today.

Be still, my soul; the Lord is on your side;

bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;

leave to your God to order and provide;

in ev’ry change he faithful will remain.

Be still, my soul; your best, your heav’nly friend

through thorny ways leads to a joyful end. -- Kathrina von Schlegel (18th century)