Scripture
Filled with the Holy Spirit, Jesus returned from the Jordan
and was led by the Spirit into the desert for forty days,
to be temptedLuke 4: 1
Reflection
The first Sunday of Lent always begin with Jesus alone in the desert for 40 days. The desert is not a good place to be alone and certainly not alone for 40 days. We can imagine Jesus being hot, hungry, tired and lonely. In this vulnerable state, he may have experienced some inner confusion and chaos and that is when he is tempted. At the same time it is also the place where he is supported and consoled by angels. We have all had experiences of confusion and chaos when we are tempted to abandon our good intentions and desires to be a good person. The Gospel assures us that God will be present to us at these times of confusion and doubt. It is the time when we can most sincerely trust in God. We may not have winged creatures appear to us, but we may have some human angels who will reach out to us and give us hope and encouragement.
Practice
During these weeks of Lent, put your trust in God and ask for some help in your time of temptation; or be an angel of mercy and consolation to someone who needs some reassurance or encouragement.
May God be with us in our desert experiences and may we be angels of mercy and consolation to someone who is in the desert.