As they were going out, a demoniac who could not speak was brought to him,
and when the demon was driven out the mute person spoke. The crowds were amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.” (Matthew 9:32-33 NABRE)
These days, we are willing, and even quick, to assign the cause of unusual behaviors to psychological disorders. In a lot of cases, however, we don't realize the definitions of these disorders are only attempts to describe and classify the unusual behaviors. They are not true explanations of what causes the behaviors, and in many cases we cannot actually explain the causes, we can only describe the behaviors in ways that help medical professionals treat symptoms and manage the impact on lives.
And so, to hear about a man who is unable to speak because he is possessed by a demon, reads to us like little more than trivial horror fiction.
Regardless of the cause of this man's condition, we see that Jesus healed him instantly. We see that there were many witnesses to the healing. And we see that some in the crowd realized that what Jesus was capable of was unique, powerful, and real.
Today, I will be encouraged by the healing power of Jesus.
Blessed Emmanuel Ruiz and Companions, martyred in 1860 for refusing to renounce your faith, pray for us.
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