Compiled by: Georgeanne Falstrom, Intern
PARISH LAY MINISTRY ACADEMY
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Saturday, March 18, 2006
Daily readings: Psalm 75-76; 23,27; Gen. 43:16-34; I Cor. 7:10-24; Mark 5:1-20

THE PRICE OF FREEDOM
By: Carol Court

"For he who was a slave when he was called by the Lord is the Lord's freedman; similarly, he who was a free man when he was called is Christ's slave. You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men." ~ 1 Corinthians 7:22-23

"…a man with an evil spirit came from the tombs to meet [Jesus]. …he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him."

"…the people...came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid." ~ Mark 5:2-4, 14-15

Several news items recently warn parents who give their children significant freedom and privacy, to hold themselves and their children more accountable. Apparently, allowing our sons and daughters lots of space to develop their individuality without interference is leading many to very risky behavior. Entities in both the real world and the cyber world are taking advantage of youthful naiveté and natural curiosity, luring them into danger, like lambs to the slaughter.

How can freedom be a bad thing? Perhaps when it comes without cost or accountability. Mark tells us the demon-possessed man could not be physically bound by any human means. Beset by evil, he was out of control and a danger to others. No one could stop him, but neither could they help him—until Jesus came. With a word, Jesus banished the demons and set the man free. His first thought was to follow Christ, to become his servant. Instead, Jesus sent him back to his family, to his life and its responsibilities. To keep him accountable, he instructed the man to tell his family how he had been saved by God’s mercy.

When we seek redemption for our sins in prayer, we hold ourselves accountable. When we pray, we should name our demons--pride, anger, resentment, fear--whatever they are, asking Christ to banish them. Freed from sin by Grace, we too should seek to serve, and to tell others—our children especially—the Old, Old Story, reminding them, "You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men."

Prayer: Gracious and Almighty Lord, you are the only freedom I ever need to seek. Guide me to remember, in you all my needs are met. Protect me and my family from evil and give me the wisdom and courage to teach my children, by word and by example, to serve only you. In Christ’s Holy Name, Amen.