IDENTIFYING TEMPTATIONS
According to the Gospels, the temptations experienced by Jesus are not exactly of the moral order. They are propositions that suggest to Jesus false ways of understanding and living out his mission. That is why his reaction serves as a model for our moral conduct, but above all, it warns us not to stray from the mission Jesus has entrusted to his followers.
First of all, his temptations help us to identify with greater clarity and responsibility the temptations that his Church, and we who make up the Church, may experience today. How will we be a Church that is faithful to Jesus if we are not aware of the most dangerous temptations that can lead us astray today from his project and his lifestyle?
In the first temptation, Jesus renounces the use of God to change stones into bread and satisfy thus his hunger. He will not take that road. He will not spend his life seeking his own interest. He will not use the Father selfishly. He will feed on God’s living Word, and will only multiply loaves in order to feed the hungry people.
This is probably the most serious temptation for Christians in rich countries: to use religion to fulfill our material well-being, to numb our consciences and empty our Christianity of compassion, going about life deaf to God’s voice that keeps crying out, Where are your brothers and sisters?
In the second temptation, Jesus renounces power and glory to be acquired on the condition that he submits, as everyone with power does, to abuses, lies and injustices that are the support of the power inspired by the devil. God’s kingdom is not imposed; it is offered with love; he will only worship the God of the poor, the weak and the helpless.
In these times of loss of social power, it is tempting for the Church to try to recover the power and the glory of times past, to claim an absolute power even over society. We are wasting an historic opportunity to be led into a new path of humble service and fraternal fellowship with today’s men and women who are in so much need of love and hope.
In the third temptation, Jesus renounces the taking of the easy way out and the ostentatious manner of carrying out his mission. He will not be a triumphalist Messiah. He will never put God at the service of his vainglory. He will be among his own as one who serves.
It will always be tempting for some to use religion to seek fame, renown and prestige. Few things are more ridiculous for those who follow Jesus than ostentation and the seeking of honors. They damage the Church and leave her empty of truth.
February 14, 2016
1st Sunday of Lent (C)
Luke 4, 1-13