When he saw Jesus a long way off, he ran and bowed in worship before him—then bellowed in protest, “What business do you have, Jesus, Son of the High God, messing with me? I swear to God, don’t give me a hard time!” (Jesus had just commanded the tormenting evil spirit, “Out! Get out of the man!”)
-Mark 5:6-8 (MSG)

Here Jesus runs into a demon-possessed madman who was described as unrestrainable. Nothing or no one could keep him contained. He lived in the graveyards and went around screaming and cutting himself with rocks.

Sounds like a fun guy.

When he comes face to face with Jesus though, the demon, speaking through the man, rebelliously complains. What business do you have messing with me? Don’t give me a hard time! In other words: mind your own business.

I think it’s interesting that the demon replied to Jesus the same way that many people in the world today respond to him.

  • A Christian hears God telling them that enough is enough and to overcome their struggle with a particular sin… C’mon, God. Don’t give me a hard time!
  • An unbeliever feels Christ calling them to begin a new life with him… Why are you messing with me? Get out of my business!

I wonder how many times I might have essentially told God to stop interfering with things and let me do it my way. I never thought I might be siding with a demon on that one.

For the sake of the madman, thankfully Jesus didn’t listen to the demon. Thank you Jesus for not listening to me as well.