The story from the Gospel tells us that the people of that time believed in Evil Spirits. They also believed that in some way illness, physical or mental was caused by an evil spirit.
In either case what we see in today’s Gospel is that Jesus cured the person. Are there such things as evil spirits? The experience of Fr. Alphonse Trabold (Description of the experiences of a Franciscan Exorcist).
Can we take on evil spirit’s demons, maybe not in the way an official exorcist can, but we can take on some demons.
Your love for another can cast out the demon of fear and despair.
Your willingness to be patient, to forgive and understand, enables you to call out the demons of bigotry and distrust.
Your generosity can respond to and overcome the demon of selfishness.
Jesus acted with authority. It is the authority that comes from the attitude and works of compassion and mercy. We have been given that same authority by our common priesthood, as followers of Christ.
It’s an important ministry. Let us not be afraid to use it.