Lent is a time of fasting, penance and charity: a time of reflection, and spiritual renewal. Jesus was in the wilderness for 40 days, fasting and praying. As we reflect on the 3 temptations we are called to return to God from our wilderness to his spring. In the first temptation, bread symbolises our worldly pleasures: food, sex, and self-indulgence. We are often tempted to fulfill our inner void with outward things. Jesus said “Do not worry about what you will eat…instead seek first God’s kingdom and its righteousness” (Mt 6: 33). The second temptation is about testing God. Do we trust in God and discern our decisions? When we do that, the Holy Spirit will guide us. The third temptation is about power: bowing down before wordly systems, corrupt practices, injustice, murder. By Jesus’ death and resurrection we have been made right with God. In that confidence we turn to God in repentance and are being renewed.

Abba Father, heal me and cleanse me of my sinfulness. Amen.