Then they sailed to the country of the Gadarenes, which is opposite Galilee. And when He stepped out on the land, there met Him a certain man from the city who had demons for a long time. And he wore no clothes, nor did he live in a house but in the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out, fell down before Him, and with a loud voice said, «What have I to do with You, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg You, do not torment me!» For He had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For it had often seized him, and he was kept under guard, bound with chains and shackles; and he broke the bonds and was driven by the demon into the wilderness. Jesus asked him, saying, «What is your name?» And he said, «Legion,» because many demons had entered him. And they begged Him that He would not command them to go out into the abyss. Now a herd of many swine was feeding there on the mountain. So they begged Him that He would permit them to enter them. And He permitted them. Then they went out to see what had happened, and came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. Now the man from whom the demons had departed begged Him that he might be with Him. But Jesus sent him away, saying, «Return to your own house, and tell what great things God has done for you.» And he went his way and proclaimed throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him. (Luke.8:26-32,35).

Fallen spirits still exist today. We do not see them with our physical eyes, but the soul often senses their presence. They are repulsive, cold, dark, and unpleasant.

Sometimes, people believe that demons have power over humans, but today’s Gospel reading during the service tells us this is not true. Not only do they lack power over humans, but they do not even have power over animals. They act only to the extent that the Lord allows. Therefore, we should not fear them, as they cannot harm someone unless God permits them.

The Gospel reading also teaches us to humble ourselves and turn away from pride. We must remember that we are only as strong as God grants us strength. This means that our strength is not our own achievement but God’s gift. The gifts that God bestows upon us should lead us to humility, not pride. If we love God above all and strive to live according to His commandments, the Lord’s blessing will be upon us, and no dark power will harm us. We will walk the path to eternal life in Heaven, in Christ Jesus, our Lord!