Luke 4:1-13 - Sunday Scripture Reflection

As we gather for the First Sunday in Lent, we will follow Jesus out into the desert and listen as he is tested by the devil. Lent is a time for us to slow down (maybe stop!) and be attentive to God. The phrase that one often hears in Lent is "active listening," which means a quiet presence that is waiting for the movement of God's Spirit in our lives. One of the biggest challenges to our relationship with God is "success and happiness." Not that we should strive to invite challenge and discomfort into our lives, but the devil's testing ways prove that worldly prosperity and success can give us a false sense of our own accomplishment, with a corresponding distancing from God's ever-present grace and mercy. We will reflect upon how we might be happy and successful people, yet always be mindful that God never leaves our presence, no matter the season or our success.

For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):