We have just read about Jesus’ baptism in the Gospel according to Matthew and how ‘the Spirit of God descended
like a dove and coming down on him.’ Now Jesus is ‘led by the Spirit out into the desert . . .’
There are a few important things for us
to notice here. Firstly, the Spirit of God leads Jesus to be tested. God is initiating the testing. It is not Jesus’ voluntary action. So during this time of Lent, in drawing close to God, let us open ourselves to God’s Spirit and be aware of the Spirit’s leading in our getting closer to God. After all, from our baptism, God’s Spirit draws us, guides us through this life, points out our sins, heals us if we desire, consoles us, and leads us to a more wholesome and healthier
lifestyle.
So, we don’t decide on our sin, correction or righteousness, and we are never alone whenever we are tested in one way or another. God’s Spirit is always present, working in our hearts, convicting us of sin, guiding us, helping us back into a righteous life and consoling and comforting us as we go.
Let us consciously turn to God’s Spirit for help this Lent and allow him to show us where and how God wants us to change, correct, and fortify our lives. Let him take the
initiative and show us how to fast and pray. Then allow that same Spirit to guide and console us in the process.
It is also
good to remember that temptations are not the sin. Jesus faced the tempter and went through his tests but did well and did not sin. So let us rely on God’s Spirit to assist us as we face our tempter, to ‘pass’ our tests well, bringing glory to God.
Think about how Jesus never leaves you alone to face the devil or be tested.
Become aware of the Spirit helping you by giving you wisdom and words to face temptations and successfully overcome them.
Also,
become aware of the victorious joy God sends when we overcome temptation, even in the smallest ways.
