Go Home

Jesus did not let him, but said," Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how He has had mercy on you."   Mark 5.19

A fascinating verse, fascinating story of what Jesus had and has power over. This was the man, if you will recall, who called himself Legion for his demons were many. The demons begged to not be sent away from the area, finally asking to be allowed into a herd of 2,000 pigs. Jesus allowed this, and the herd of pigs careened into the lake to drown. 
Apparently demons will torture animals as well. 

Firstly, it is interesting to note that Jesus did not want this man to go with him...although I would imagine he was told so kindly. This shows an example that for the time being, our wishes may have to be put on hold. This man, healed from demonic presences, begged to go along; in a similar manner I have begged to be healed of pain. Yet thus far, the answer has not been what I want. 
Let's consider the second part of the verse, which answers why the first could not happen. This man, healed of demons, was to go home, to tell what had happened, how the Lord was merciful.
 From what I have heard of demon possession practices of the time, the person possessed first saw a rabbi, then may do a Nazarene oath...which seems to be a month long time of silence, prayers and studying Torah. Then, if that failed, the person often went out into the wilderness in an attempt to fend off the demons. Bear in mind I am not certain how  true these tactics are. I would imagine that the person possessed, with mind wandering, leaves the family also in the hope the demons do not spread and they do not hurt loved ones by accident. 
Anyway, the family likely thought he was dead, or at least all hope gone for his possession. 
For him to return home, free of demons, to those who had watched them take over his body, would be quite astounding. He then would relate the story of how he was freed of them! The word would spread like wildfire---anyone freed of demons was news. 
As we face our trials, tribulations, healings, mercies and wonders, we must remember, regardless to give glory to God. To see the mercy and wonder of what He has and is doing. That He loves us so much He not only suffered and conquered death, but He, like the Perfect Father, Master, Teacher, gives us so many other gifts. Peace and strength to face trials, wonder at His creation and majesty, the incredible blessings in the midst of trial.