The Price of Pork or a Right Mind

Scripture

Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. When they 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. Those who had seen it told the people what had happened to the demon-possessed man – and told about the pigs as well. Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region. (Mark 5:14-17 NIVUK) 

The Price of Pork or A Right Mind 

I’m not sure if you find some of the discussion about “rights” for the mentally ill to be euthanized either confusing or like a Monty Python skit. The Health Minister dismissed those with concerns about the sanctity of life and the possibility that any mental health condition might change, saying, “They’re just ideologues”.  

Smarter and wiser minds than mine explore ethical considerations about life- whether it’s the death penalty for offenders, euthanasia, the rights of the unborn – from deep moral and ethical positions. I’m willing to credit the same but different ethic to the Health Minister but our culture is finding it hard to find a balance between legal rights and the value of a human life – and the price of providing supports for those struggling without hope.  

Jesus confronted a deeply self-destructive mentally ill man, naked and cutting himself – beyond apparent help or control. Jesus spent time with him and his power confronted whatever inner demons he had and suddenly he was clothed and in his right mind chatting with the disciples. But the price was high for the neighbours.  

Somehow the destructive evil that afflicted the man was transferred to create the world’s first devilled ham – 2000 pigs over a cliff at 200 bucks each was 40,000 bucks. Too much for their tastes so in spite of the wonder at a restored human being the price was too high. We are faced with some of these same choices – what is the value we place on restoring a life?  

A Prayer for Today

O God of mercy, when I see the broken ones of our world sleeping on grates, holding out their hands for help, wildly gesticulating down a street in a world of their own I wonder where you are in all of this. Where am I in all of this?, is a better question. Help me to help. Grant us compassion that moves us to action.       …. For Jesus’ sake