Wednesday, February 14, 2024

The Temptation of Jesus

 

Mark 1:12-15

Sometimes we can get caught off guard. It’s important to be prepared for anything that might come along. Jesus was prepared. Today’s Gospel is all about how He prepared for His work. 

We are now entering the church season called “Lent.” Lent is a time when we consider how we can love and serve God. 

We focus on the life that Jesus led and the things He did while with us on Earth. 

Jesus took a trip out into the wilderness. His purpose was to prepare His heart for the ministry God was going to have Him do. 

When He went into the wilderness, Jesus didn’t bring a water bottle or sunscreen with Him. In fact, He didn’t even bring food. For forty days he didn’t eat anything!!! 

I would be pretty hungry by the end of that time. Jesus was, too, and Satan came to tempt Him to make and eat bread. But Jesus didn’t give in. He knew it was important to suffer, in order to save us and comfort us. He used His time in the wilderness to get ready for what was ahead.

And that’s our job too. Preparing for what might lie ahead. 

During this season, a lot of people honor Lent by giving up something they enjoy, like TV or chocolate or soda. 

Sometimes people add things on to their schedules, like working with an organization or donating things. The idea is to prepare our hearts and minds. 

Rather than thinking about distracting things, we fix our focus on Christ. As we think about what He endured, we prepare our hearts to celebrate His resurrection at Easter. 

We also think about being prepared to live our lives for God. You never know what He might have in mind. His plans are usually different than what we might think. Whatever happens, we take extra time to pray, read our Bibles, hearing God’s Word, and talk with others for wise advice. We prepare for Lent and prepare for anything!

We Pray 

Lord, Thank you for sending Jesus to live a perfect life.  Thank you that He can help us when we are tempted. Help us to prepare our hearts and minds. So that we can serve you and do your will. Thank you for your love and care

Words – 390
Passive Sentences –5.7%
Readability – 83.8%
Reading Level – 4.2

The Temptation of Jesus copyright Ed Riojas, Higher Things

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