Sunday, March 6

 

The First Sunday in Lent

Luke 4:1-13

Much like Jesus in this passage, I can be especially tempted when I feel the goodness of the Holy Spirit…and sometimes it happens before I can stop the temptation, urge or impulse.  In a broad sense, my temptations can be much like those Jesus faced:  trusting my own power rather than trusting God; the temptation to be impressed by a grandiose schemer; or the temptation to question whether God is present, or, for that matter, even exists.  And when temptation is unrelenting, I can be tempted to give up on God's all-powerful presence in my life altogether. 

I have not given up.  Now, if I think about the passage in its entirety, I can see the Trinity at work.  Jesus was already filled with the Holy Spirit, he quoted scripture and thereby knew the will of God, and using these powers he resisted. 

I don't necessarily quote scripture or think of the Trinity at work when I resist, but I have memorized such reminders as "Let go and Let God', "How important is it?" or "If in doubt, don't".   I doubt the consequences of any of my temptations are life-threatening…. but I shudder to think how different life would be for all of us had Jesus given in to his.

Reflection by Linda Walton

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