Lectionary: 24
Read: Luke 4:1-13
Gospel Summary
Each year, at the beginning of Lent, the lectionary has us hear the story of the devil tempting Jesus in the desert. This year we hear Luke's version. Following his baptism, Jesus went out into the desert for forty days during which time he ate nothing. Knowing that Jesus would be hungry, the devil tempted him to turn a stone into bread. When Jesus did not, the devil showed him all the kingdoms of the earth, promising Jesus all the glory and power of them if Jesus would worship the devil. Again Jesus refused. Finally, Satan took Jesus to the top of the temple in Jerusalem and told him to jump because God's angels would save him. Jesus refused each of the three temptations by quoting scripture from the book of Deuteronomy thus making clear his obedience to God.
Reflection for Families
Sometimes we think only of the divinity of Jesus and forget how difficult these temptations must have been for the human Jesus. We face far lesser temptations every day and some we resist while others we give in to. When we think of obedience like daily exercises, it becomes habit and we condition ourselves to obey God. Through our example and guidance, parents can help their children do the same thing. If the temptations are hard to resist, we know Jesus understands our difficulty because he went through a similar experience. He will be there for us when we ask for his help.
Bringing the Gospel Into Your Family
Now, at the beginning of this Lent, make a list of all the temptations each family member faces at home, at school, at work, in the neighborhood. Next to each temptation write down ways you will work to avoid them. Allow all family members to help one another with suggestions and make a time in each day of Lent to pray for each person as he/she works to resist the temptations he/she faces.
Discussion Starters
1. One thing I've learned from Jesus about temptation is ...
2. Taking some "desert" time in my life would help me ...
3. The best way for me to avoid temptation is to ...
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