Temptation in the Desert, Part II

Temptation in the Desert, Part II

Now having handled the preliminaries, we get to the main event: The devil tempting Jesus, not once but three times. 1) the temptation of bread, i.e. the fulfilling of physical need. Think of all the good Jesus could do for himself and the world if he turns stones in to bread. He could end hunger – that would be a worthwhile achievement in itself. But it would do nothing about justice and our call to love one another. 2) the temptation of power/control. Think of all the good Jesus could do if he had power over all the earth. But what about free will? Jesus does not want to compel people, he wants them to choose life, and love on their own. 3) the temptation of fame. If angels caught Jesus as he was jumping off the temple - that would have caused a sensation. Jesus, instead of being a person to strive to be like would become a spectacle. In every case, the devil offers Jesus power – over things, people and media. Economic, Political and Social power. That is not what Jesus was about. Instead Jesus preached mercy and compassion, justice and forgiveness, love of God and love of neighbor. He is about letting go instead of holding on, emptying instead of possessing, surrendering instead of causing conflict. He exhibits the qualities of humility, gentleness, peacefulness, self control, kindness – characteristics that seem dangerous and risky in the current age. Anyone who thinks following Jesus is the easy way had better think again.