Then the tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, order these stones to
turn into bread.” But Jesus answered, “Scripture says: One does not live on bread alone,
but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Then the devil took Jesus to the Holy
City, set him on the highest wall of the temple, and said to him, “If you are the Son of God,
throw yourself down, for scripture says: God has given orders to his angels concerning you.
Their hands will hold you up, lest you hurt your foot against a stone.” Jesus answered,
“But scripture also says: You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.” Then the devil
took Jesus to a very high mountain, and showed him all the nations of the world in all their
greatness and splendor. And he said, “All this I will give you, if you kneel down and worship
me.” Then Jesus answered, “Be off, Satan! Scripture says: Worship the Lord your God and
serve him alone!” Then the devil left him; and angels came to serve him.
READ: In Genesis, we hear about the first sin as the man and woman are tempted by the
serpent to disobey God’s command. Paul tells the Romans that this first sin brought death
to humankind, death ultimately defeated by Jesus who brings forgiveness, grace, and
salvation. In Matthew’s Gospel, the devil tempts Jesus three times, but Jesus remains
obedient to his Father.
REFLECT: Sinning is turning away from God. We can turn away from God in our thoughts
and in our actions, by doing things we know are wrong or by failing to do the things we
know are right. In the desert, Jesus is tempted to satisfy his physical desires, to seek
power, and to test God’s love. We face similar temptations. The culture encourages
satisfying any desires we might have, without regard for God or others. Accumulating
wealth, power, and influence is seen as a life goal. Doubting God’s love and even his
existence is seen as a mark of sophistication. In the midst of these temptations, Jesus
gives us the strength and grace to follow the path of life and he offers forgiveness when
we stumble.
PRAY: God, please forgive me for the times I have turned away from you and help me
purify my heart.
ACT: Make a nightly examination of conscience part of your routine.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2023