RBWords

     The story of Jesus' temptation in the desert follows that of his baptism (with the voice that identifies him as "my beloved Son.") and the genealogy that identifies him as "the Son of God."  The temptation in the desert is designed to show that no evil is stronger than Jesus.  The Mediterranean world features a strong belief in all kinds of "evil spirits" that aim at interfering in life and tempting people.  In the case of Jesus, these are not trivial but go to the very core of his being and mission. They all concern abuse of power. 

     The first temptation is to physical satisfaction - to turn a stone into bread to break his fast in the desert.  This borders on "magic," which is not what Jesus' power is meant to accomplish.  Jesus points out that there are more important things than physical satisfaction!  The second temptation is political and worldly power and glory so that everyone will be subject to him in that way.  Jesus points out that all power and glory are from God and not from the devil.  Finally, the devil tries to make Jesus "prove" that he is God's Son by forcing his Father to rescue him from a foolish jump from the top of the temple wall!   Jesus points out that God is not to be "tested" as if God is at the beck and call of any mortal or evil "spirit."  Jesus clearly emerges as the strongest in this contest.

     It's our turn!  What about the temptations to satisfy ourselves sensually, or acquire power and wealth, or make God "prove" that God is interested in us?  We humans seem to think we are omnipotent at times.  We can consume whatever we want, grab for any power we can get, and dare God to interfere!  It's a bit comical to think of, but all too common!  Perhaps on this first Sunday of Lent, when we are still trying to fight the temptation to "give up on what we gave up," we should look to the more serious temptations and ask ourselves about those.  We can be sure that Jesus will understand.  He has "been there and done that!"  AMEN