The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, February 29, 2004
First Sunday of Lent

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Deuteronomy 26:4-10
Psalm 91:1-2,10-15
Romans 10:8-13
Luke 4:1-13

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

When I hear someone quote Sacred Scripture to make a point, I often remember today’s Gospel. In today’s quote, Satan tempts Jesus in the desert and quotes Holy Scripture, hoping it seems, to catch Jesus off guard.

We know, however, that the seemingly clever tact of the Evil One, did not work. Jesus didn’t comprehend the Scriptural texts in the fragmented and manipulated way of those who are not led by the Spirit; He was not fooled by a few well-placed words.

This Gospel teaching reveals to us that unless we comprehend Sacred Scripture with a heart conformed to the mind and heart of God, we might fall prey to those who are seemingly smart, know all the right words and make all the right moves.

If we truly rely on God, our defense is no feeble one, but one that will truly protect us lest anything harm or defile us. Let us pray constantly, then, for God’s help, remembering: “When the devil had finished all this tempting he left Him, to await another opportunity.”

- Donna Nelson, ocds
(drn3rd at hotmail dot com)

____________________

These meditations are also available by email subscription
©1986-2004 The Way, The Truth, The Life

posted by joachim at 4:20 AM