Gospel Reflection for the First Sunday of Lent, Year C

Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble. (Psalm 90)

The First Sunday of Lent each year is introduced by Jesus' temptation in the desert. Mark, Matthew and Luke each describe it from their own point of view. However, the main features  are the same -  stark and real. Jesus has just received baptism from John and, inspired by the Holy Spirit, prepares for his saving ministry by a preparatory period in the wilderness. 

While we, as his feeble followers cannot enter into his cosmic struggle of good and evil, there is one aspect of Jesus' temptation we can share. In his temptation to achieve his mission by means of signs and wonders and as a bread-king, Jesus called on his Father by quoting Scripture. 

In the time of temptation we too can call on our heavenly Father to come to our help. That is the  glorious privilege we have gained through our baptism into the life of God. 

May you have a blessed Lent.