Jesus and the Howling Monster!

I think most children are frightened of monsters! I happened to be reading a familiar children's story and unbeknownst to me, one character turned into the green-eyed monster because of her jealousy. For weeks after that, my three-year-old granddaughter, Brielle, was frightened of monsters. She saw them under the bed, or in a dark closet, or at night when the lights were turned off. I thought about Jesus' encounter with Legion as told in two of the Gospels. And I adapted the story of Jesus arriving in Gentile country, and encountering Legion, who frightened everyone around him. Scripture says he howled, and was chained to a rock.

Legion tells the children that he is a monster, in order to keep them away. He can't always control himself and doesn't want to hurt anyone.

Jesus talks compassionately with Legion, something he had rarely experienced. ln the course of their conversation, Jesus heals the man and asked him to be released from his chains. And following his interaction with Jesus, and healing, Legion is able lo return to society in a peaceful manner.

The artist, Bob Holloway, is a renowned artist throughout the Midwest, and in even broader circles. This is his first picture children's book, and mine, and we are eager to share this compelling story with you and your children! - Stephen Jones