A reflection on the readings for March 9, 2014, the First Sunday in Lent.
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This week’s readings focus on events of temptation, in the
garden and in the desert. Temptation is an unwelcome feeling. I have witnessed a
common stance among my generation: “If God didn’t want me to succumb, he wouldn’t
have let me be tempted in the first place.” And yet, Jesus, who is fully man
but also fully God, endured incomprehensible temptation after the 40 days in the desert. Do they believe they have more merit
than God?
It is a common adage to say “God will never give you anything you can’t handle,” but I much prefer “God will never allow you anything He can’t handle.”
When we receive temptation, we are called to respond in a
righteous way. We are called to imitate Jesus, especially as in Matthew 4:1-11.
Turn to God in times of temptation. Lenten sacrifices can be
difficult, but remember in humility:
“One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that
comes forth from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)
“The Lord, your God, shall you worship and him alone shall
you serve.” (Matthew 4:10)
"Lent is like a long 'retreat' during which we can turn
back into ourselves and listen to the voice of God, in order to defeat the
temptations of the Evil One. It is a period of spiritual 'combat' which we must
experience alongside Jesus, not with pride and presumption, but using the arms
of faith: prayer, listening to the word of God and penance. In this way we will
be able to celebrate Easter in truth, ready to renew the promises of our
Baptism."
- Pope Emeritus
Benedict XVI- Angelus Homily, February 21st, 2010
Godbwye,
Laurel
"It is a common adage to say “God will never give you anything you can’t handle,” but I much prefer “God will never allow you anything He can’t handle.”" Well said Laurel! Amen, and let us all learn to trust in His strength and His mercy as we journey through Lent!
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