Jesus spent 40 days in the desert at the end of his ministry, leading up to his final entrance into Jerusalem, his trial and crucifixion, and three days later, his resurrection. The 40 days leading up to Easter Sunday, the period we’re in now, is called “Lent.” When we were kids growing up Catholic, we fasted during this time. Candy was my delight, so I usually chose it to give up. In our house, we were granted an indulgence each Sunday after church, at which time I happily gorged on sweets. Looking back, without that weekly bit of grace, I don’t think I could have kept the fast all the way to Easter, and then, indulging on as many chocolate bunnies as I could eat. Lent means different things to different people, of course. What resonates with me this year is the time Jesus spent in the wilderness by himself fasting and praying. I imagine him seeking discernment about his impending destiny on the cross. Maybe he hoped for another way. During this time of deprivation and uncertainty, alone in the wilderness, the Devil visits Jesus offering to be
Lent, Troubled Times and Candy
Lent, Troubled Times and Candy
Lent, Troubled Times and Candy
Jesus spent 40 days in the desert at the end of his ministry, leading up to his final entrance into Jerusalem, his trial and crucifixion, and three days later, his resurrection. The 40 days leading up to Easter Sunday, the period we’re in now, is called “Lent.” When we were kids growing up Catholic, we fasted during this time. Candy was my delight, so I usually chose it to give up. In our house, we were granted an indulgence each Sunday after church, at which time I happily gorged on sweets. Looking back, without that weekly bit of grace, I don’t think I could have kept the fast all the way to Easter, and then, indulging on as many chocolate bunnies as I could eat. Lent means different things to different people, of course. What resonates with me this year is the time Jesus spent in the wilderness by himself fasting and praying. I imagine him seeking discernment about his impending destiny on the cross. Maybe he hoped for another way. During this time of deprivation and uncertainty, alone in the wilderness, the Devil visits Jesus offering to be