Luke 4:1-13

Reflection

Immediately following Jesus’ Baptism, he travels out into the desert for 40 days, where he is “tempted” by Satan. There are three temptations that we hear about. Given Jesus had not eaten during those days, the devil seeks to appeal to his hunger first. Next, we hear of the devil promising Jesus power and glory only if Jesus worships him. Finally, the devil attempts to make Jesus test God. Satan is unsuccessful in all of his trickery.

We only hear about three temptations in the Gospel today, but interestingly, if you read the final verse, it says that the devil had finished every temptation. You can assume, then, that Jesus was tried with every temptation we deal with in our lives. Unlike us, though, Jesus never fails. He remains firm with a heart disposed to the loving gaze of his Father, our Father.

We are tempted by the devil every day. He knows how much God loves us, and he cannot stand that one bit. He forfeited his relationship to God because of pride and wants you to do the same. In what ways is Satan trying to pull you away from God?

Saint of the Day

St. Frances of Rome: 1384 – 1440

“Hope every thing from the mercy of God; it is as boundless as His power.”   St. Frances of Rome