Temptations are usually a way to persuade us that temporal goods are better than the Ultimate Good, God Himself. Temptations offer an opportunity to identity, belong, and measure our worth in things other than God.

Today Jesus is tempted three times by the devil to sin.

First, by lust of the flesh—to break his fast. By tempting Christ to turn stones into bread, Satan proposes the pleasure of our flesh. In our own life this likens to bodily pleasures which pull us away from God. We must choose God’s Will over our will.

Second, the pride of life. Jump, the angels will save you. Just a publicity stunt tempting Christ with celebrity status. Jesus did not come for fame, but to win our hearts and our love.

Third, by breaking the first commandment by worshipping Satan. In Satan’s ego he tempts the humble Christ with earthly desires.  

Remember, evil promises lies and delivers counterfeits all the while whispering that we don’t need God.

God allows temptations to purify, sanctify, detach from earthly goods and to teach us humility and reliance on Him. Whenever we are confronted with temptation, we need to remember what Christ said, “Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

We are tempted as free persons to determine our fidelity to God making the choice to love, obey and trust Him with our life.

Lent is a time to stretch ourselves and rely on God, remember we are not alone. Don’t rely on your own strength. Satan is the prince of lies; you can’t match wits with him.

Use the time-tested weapons for spiritual battles—prayer, Mass, adoration, confession and devotion to the Blessed Virgin.

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