A Reflection for the First Sunday of Lent

Have you noticed how central the word ‘if’ is to Satan’s questioning?  In each instance he appeals through the word ‘if’ to a very natural desire:  food when hungry, recognition,  possessions, power and influence.

Did “if” feature a lot in your childhood and does it feature in your communication with yourself or with others  today?  ‘If you do your homework …, If you are good today …, If you behave  …?’  In short do we bargain for the outcomes we desire?  I’m not suggesting that that’s necessarily a bad thing.  A primary teacher tells me the promise of chocolate can be a great motivator!

But let’s consider briefly Christ’s response to Satan’s persistence with ultimately false ‘if’ promises.  Three things for your consideration:  his knowledge and application of teachings found in Sacred Scripture, his brevity (he closes the conversations down) and the fact that his engagement takes its toll …. the angels appeared and looked after him. 

May this holy season of Lent inspire and encourage us to model our thinking and decision-making on the life of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Taking Our Hearts to the Lord – Scripture Sharing Group Resource, Lent 2017