Why was Jesus tempted in the desert? Father Michael Mohr, SJ, reflects on how even Jesus’s experience of temptation is for our salvation. Based on the readings for the First Sunday of Lent.
Facing temptation alone means certain failure.
I’m Father Michael Mohr, and this is my One Minute Homily.
We hear in the Gospel today Jesus’ temptation in the desert. After fasting for forty days, Jesus is left hungry and vulnerable. Even though he was physically weak, Jesus remains steadfast against every temptation from the devil.
Every day we are faced with similar temptations toward our own self-interest, be it for power or pleasure, or personal gain. Unlike Jesus, we often fall into sin as we struggle to remain steadfast in our faith. As the season of Lent begins, we can reflect upon the many ways we need God’s help in our lives.
St. Augustine writes that Jesus allowed himself to be tempted to show us that He can overcome temptation in us. Too often, I forget that everything Jesus experienced in his earthly life was for the sake of my salvation. Jesus overcoming temptation while in the desert reminds us what is possible with His help.
In a temptation-laden world, let us cling to Christ, who comes to our aid as we strive to remain steadfast in our life of faith.
