But in our gospel reading, Jesus tells his disciples that he has Satan all tied up! Is SATAN giving Jesus the power to drive out demons? Ridiculous! Satan would never give an inch to God's kingdom willingly. The reason Jesus can cast out demons is because God gives him the power – enough power to defeat Satan and plunder his house. Through his death and resurrection, Jesus has FREED God's people from slavery to Satan. And in baptism into his death and resurrection, Jesus promises his believers that he will abide in them, and continue his work of healing and casting out demons through them.
So we can expect the miraculous to happen around us! We can proclaim Jesus's victory over Satan and bring a word of hope to people under Satan's tyranny – that regardless of what the temporary looks like, the eternal outcome has been secured. We can spread the word that Satan's influence can shrink in this world, at least among us who know his arms are tied. We can get involved in plundering Satan's house, and claim people and situations for God's kingdom. And we can witness to the miraculous things we do see, to encourage each other, and build each other up in faith. We do not need to FEAR the strong man whom Jesus has tied up. And we most certainly do not need to LISTEN to his offers for our eternal soul.
Gracious God, we thank you for showing your power through Jesus Christ abiding within us. Help us recognize the situations where we should proclaim your victory, and help us to witness to the miracles we have already experienced, in Jesus name, amen.