1st Sunday of Lent 

Jesus used the word of God and Won.

1. The Devil came and said to Him, “If you are the son of God, tell these stones to become loaves of bread. But Jesus told him, “No! the scriptures say, “people do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:3-4).
2. The Devil said, “If you are the son of God, jump off! For the scriptures say, “He will order His angels to protect you. And they will hold you up with their hands, so you would not even hurt your foot on a stone.” Jesus responded, “The scriptures also say, “you must not test the Lord your God.” (Matthew 4:5-7).
3. “I will give it all to you, the Devil said, “If you will kneel down and worship me.” “Get out of here, Satan, “Jesus told him, “For the scriptures say, “You must worship the Lord your God and serve only Him.” (Matthew 4:9-10).

Jesus demonstrates both the importance and effectiveness of knowing and applying scripture to combat temptation. We can do the same.

To identify fully with human beings, Jesus had to endure Satan’s temptations although Jesus is God, He is also man. And as fully human, He was not exempted from Satan’s attacks. Because Jesus faced temptations and overcame them, He can assist us in two important ways.

• As an example of how to face temptation without sinning.
• As a helper who knows just what we need because He was gone through the same experience. “This high priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for He faced all of the same testings/temptations we do, yet He did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” (Hebrews 4:15-16).

“Your word (For example, the ten commandments in Exodus 20:2-17) is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” (Psalm 119:105).

When we pray “Lead us not into temptation” we are asking God not to allow us to take the path that leads to sin. This petition implores discernment and strength.

Fr.Augustine Wong