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A Reflection from the Fuel Daily Readings App for the First Sunday of Lent. Click here to read the reading.
The thing I find hardest about Lent is once I've decided what I'll give up, is sticking to the plan. Nothing looks quite as appealing as that chocolate you've decided not to eat. Suddenly, there are 100 reasons why using Social Media is an essential activity or why fasting won't work today for whatever reason. All of this resides within my very comfortable life and minor Lenten penances.
In complete contrast, to hear of Jesus in the desert tempted by Satan is a very humbling experience. Jesus is present in this experience as both God and a Man. He had the power to not go without but instead chose to participate in the desert experience as a man.
The incredible power within Jesus makes His restraint that much more meaningful. It can be easy to think it would be easier for Him to resist, but I think it actually portrays the incredible strength and character of our Lord.
Today, in sticking to my nominal fasting, I need to remember the desert. I need to look to Jesus and everything that He carried with Him to the cross, and taking solace in His strength, resolutely do this fasting that I have promised in this Lenten season.
+ Jesus, when I am weak You are strong. Let me look to You in my weakness, and find strength through Your example. Amen.