In the first Sunday of Lent, we took a journey with Jesus into the wilderness where he was tempted by the devil. Jesus withstood this temptation. How often do we withstand the temptations around us? We explored the idea that temptations often provoke a deeper desire or hunger  deep within us that can lead us astray, such as our ego,  pride, prejudice, even our need to influence others and  maintain power. 

As we journey with Jesus trough the first week of the season of Lent, create some time each and every day for self and spiritual reflection.  Ask yourself the following questions as you struggle with temptation and the desires it provokes:

1.  In what ways have I been tempted today?

2. What desires within me have those temptations provoked?

3. How can I do better in my journey with Jesus in resisting those temptations?

Pray about this and spend some time in honest reflection considering how you can be a more faithful and devoted disciple of Jesus. 

God of our weary years, lift us up and guide us forward, when we are tired beyond words. Pour your grace into our souls, when we give in to temptation and stray where we were never meant to go. Shepherding God, guide us back to you and show us the path home. In hope and gratitude, we pray, Amen.