Temptations in the Desert

Mark 1:12-15

The Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert,
and he remained in the desert for forty days,
tempted by Satan.
He was among wild beasts,
and the angels ministered to him.

After John had been arrested,
Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God:
“This is the time of fulfillment.
The kingdom of God is at hand.
Repent, and believe in the gospel.”

Here are a few thoughts as we take off into the desert for forty days:

What is my desert?
Each one of us experiences our own unique and personalized desert. Do you know what I mean? Where in your life do you experience stagnation … being stuck … even bored? Is there a situation that, try as you might, you can’t seem to change? What do I dread facing in my life, but pretend isn’t there?

What are the wild beasts–the temptations?

Those things that lure me away from my calling to be with Jesus in the desert?

We are at the very beginning of Lent. That is the good news! No matter how much I may have slinked away from my resolutions, or even my faithfulness to our Lord in general, I can humbly come back to that place in the desert where He is waiting for me, and say, “I’m sorry. I need help. Jesus, can I try again?” And He happily covers my face with kisses and makes me feel welcomed, loved and accepted.

And don’t forget He sends His angels to minister to us, too.

Angel of God, my Guardian dear,
to whom God’s love commits me here,
ever this day be at my side
to light, to guard, to rule and guide.
Amen.