First Sunday in Lent

We see in the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry how the Holy Spirit leads Him into a direct confrontation with the evil one to assure us that nothing will impede Him from fulfilling His mission to destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil. 

1. Christ is led by the Spirit into the wilderness

a. Like Israel led by Moses for 40 years 

b. We welcome or resist the leading of the Spirit 

2. Christ is tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin

a. For us temptation sharp He knew, for us the tempter overthrew 

b. God allows us to be tempted by devil/world/self for our good 

3. Christ shows us how to worship God and serve Him only

a. He gives His gifts and together we receive and extol them 

b. Fasting, prayer and alms-giving serve our neighbor