February 21, 2010
What Challenges You?
Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert for forty days, to be tempted by the devil. Lk 4:1-2
Lent is often known as a season of “giving up.” Jesus suffered in the desert, He gave up food, water and had the devil on His shoulder promising an end to His suffering. We sympathize with Christ and we “give up” something for Lent. How often do you say to your Catholic neighbor “What are you giving up for Lent?” As I reread this Gospel I find myself not thinking about what to give up for Lent but rather my thoughts go to the challenge of not giving up to the devil and his temptations. Jesus challenged Himself by facing Satan one-on-one and I ask myself what challenges the devil sends me to tempt me to the road to ruin? I know he sends me brownies I shouldn’t eat, annoyances that I shouldn’t be angry at, and situations where I find myself alone and wondering what life and living is all about.
Everyday we face challenges great and small. What devils do you have sitting on your shoulder? What challenges and temptations do you face? As we travel our Lenten journey we will fast, pray and give alms. Let us also consider taking up a challenge. Let us face our demons. Let us this Lent resolve to take up the devil’s challenges one by one and say “no thanks”! This will not be easy and we may become discouraged…But remember, Jesus is walking with us Let us remember the words of St. Paul:
The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart
Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Rom 10:8,13
God Bless, Holly Clark
P.S. Please take a look at the banners on the wall today at St. Rose and Sacred Heart. The Generations of Faith children have illustrated Jesus in the desert with Satan. During our last set of faith festivals the children shared with me some of their demons and temptations. Sharing my faith with children and having them share with me is very uplifting… won’t you do the same?
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