YEAR OF PRAYER: FIRST WEEK OF LENT 

 Jesus was brought out of the ordinary into a place where he was tempted off course. Three temptations…to comfort, power, wealth. Three ways that can take us over. Money, power and comfort can lead us astray. Wanting wealth, is understandable, we believe it will bring us security. Being powerful can help us to feel in control and the deep desire for comfort will surely release us from any fear. Jesus, however, in the face of such challenges, draws upon scripture. He knows his scripture well and it gives him the confidence to turn away from the temptations in front of him. Perhaps this Lent we can give a bit of extra time to reflecting on the daily readings, absorb them and allow them to guide us to be closer to God and strengthened in faith.