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Reflection for 2/26/06

The desert is such a bleak and inhospitable place, barren and hinting of death. Jesus spent forty days in this demanding environment, praying and fasting in preparation for his ministry. This was a stressful time for Jesus. He was pushed and pulled, sometimes tempted by Satan and sometimes ministered to by angels. But when the forty days were concluded Jesus went to Galilee ready to proclaim his message. Jesus had confronted the devil and emerged from the desert ready to do his Father’s will. Our Lent may also be a time of struggle as we strive to commit our lives more fully to Jesus. Change is often difficult. It may not be easy to let go of worldly things that capture so much of our attention. Such things may not be evil but they may keep us from growing spiritually. We can use the Lenten season as Jesus used his time in the desert to prepare ourselves for the life of faith and service to which God calls us. Time taken to discern and to choose God’s way will surely bear abundant fruit.

1. When or how could you step away from your family responsibilities to renew yourself, so that you can do a better job of following in the footsteps of Jesus?
2. What good habit could you work on during Lent so you could grow closer to God?

PRAYER:
Let this Lent be a time for growth for me, Lord. Grant me the grace to hear your Word and to follow your call. Amen.

READINGS FOR NEXT WEEK
First Reading: Genesis 9:8-15
Second Reading: 1 Peter 3:18-22
Gospel: Mark 1:12-15