October 10, 2025, Luke 11:15-26

Today Jesus teaches that only God can really protect us from demonic forces. All other measures are only temporary and in the long run make things worse. Jesus drives out demons, which might be construed as mental health ailments, “by the finger of God,” and then “the Kingdom of God has come upon you.” Quite simply, the most effective way to protect ourselves from evil forces is through prayer; Jesus’ power to protect is great. He teaches that we must choose to be with him, or else we are against him. This is his practical advice.

God loves each one of us, his creations. He wants us to be healthy and at peace, each one thriving. He sees us as beautiful, whether we are short or tall, have a round face or a narrow face, curly hair or straight hair – in our being perfectly created, we are all beautiful to him.

May the peace in Gaza endure. We must keep in mind the long healing from trauma, injury, loss, and hunger that is needed. Let us keep the people of the entire region enfolded in our hearts. Thanking God for progress towards the cessation of conflict.  Amen.