First impressions are paramount, our life coaches tell us. Suit up, look confident and practice that opening line if you want to succeed in love, finance and influence.
What if your goal is to begin a process that transforms the world from one beholden to despotic violence to one that exhibits the wholesome fullness of a paradise based on selfless care for the environment, one another and relationship with the Ground of all Being? How does one present one’s credentials?
Jesus went to his community’s regular gathering place to teach and expand a collective vision of shalom – a marination in the peace of the reign of G-d. (Mark 1:21-28) On cue, the darkest manifestation of the tyranny that opposes this vision arises in a troubled villager and challenges him. Jesus summarily dismisses the demon and the man is healed. The crowd is amazed and Jesus has established his bona fide before the end of the first chapter in Mark’s story.
Contemporary commentary on this story tends to focus on the phenomenon of “demon possession” and “mental illness.” This misses the point. Mark’s gospel sets the stage for understanding the nature of our engagement in a conflict of cosmic proportions. Jesus is presented as the one anointed with the influence and authority to overcome all that threatens to overwhelm and destroy.
Wondering Pilgrim 
Yes, I love the immediacy of Mark, interesting contrasts between each gospel’s take on the identity of Jesus.
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I think that due to some dubious practices the idea that people are plagued with demons has become distasteful. However from my own experience of mental illness I can honestly say that having faith has saved me. I truly believe that I would never have been free from the harmful thoughts – demons or otherwise – if I didn’t have faith in God.
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Yes, whatever the inner chaos that overwhelms us is named, Mark’s message is that Christ is in command and it is indeed faith on our part that leads to healing and wholeness.
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