Sunday, February 22nd

Scripture

Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7
Ps. 51: 3-6, 12-13, 17
Romans 5:12-19
Matthew 4:1-11

Reflection

“The serpent asked the woman, “Did God really tell you not to eat from any of the trees in the garden?” … “No, just this one.”… “God knows that the moment you eat of it, you will be like Gods…” Gen. 3:1-5
“Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil.”Mt. 4:1

Eve was duped! The cunning serpent twisted the truth and planted seeds of doubt and she “bit.” Similarly in the Gospel: wouldn’t you be tempted to “turn stones into bread” after a 40 day fast! Twice more the devil tempts Jesus’ susceptible heart. Fresh from his Baptism when he heard: “this is my beloved Son,” he needs to really believe that the angels will save him. One more try – this one so seductive – is all about power. Again, Jesus resisted, clinging to his deep faith in his Father.

In Abiding Word: Sunday Reflections for Year A Barbara Reid reflects: “The real temptations are the ones that are just close enough to the truth that they appear good and beneficial.”

While not directly, perhaps the Gospel also invites us to consider what happened to and for Jesus during those 40 days in the desert. As we begin our own Lenten journey of 40 days what will happen to and for us?

Prayer

A clean heart create for me, O God,
and a steadfast spirit renew within me.

Personal Challenge

Help me become more aware of my vulnerable places.
Do I need (look for) affirmation?
Am I too quiet when I need to speak?

Sister Marguerite O’Brien,
Wheeling, WV