A family tend a floating garden in Bangladesh.
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.
On this first Sunday of Lent, our readings take us from the garden to wilderness. In the beginning, God created a world of abundant goodness, in which the needs of all could be met. Today, the climate crisis threatens to destroy the garden God created and makes it hard for many of our neighbours to grow enough food to eat.
In the gospel, we join a newly baptised Jesus in the desert. Amidst temptation, Jesus rests secure in his identity as God’s beloved child, setting the stage for the rest of his ministry.
Although Jesus will not turn stones into bread to satisfy his own hunger, he will soon reach out in love to feed thousands with a few loaves and fish. He refuses to throw himself from the pinnacle of the temple, but will later overturn the tables there.
Instead of succumbing to the temptation to be an earthly ruler, Jesus chooses the path of service and love that ultimately leads to his crucifixion.
As we begin this season of Lent, let’s journey with Jesus into the wilderness, opening ourselves to the gifts and challenges of that place, so that we can join him on the costly path to the Cross.
Lent prayer
Loving God,
you walk with us in the wilderness,
and call us your beloved children.
Help us to put you and your Word
at the centre of all we do.
Amen
Act
Donate this Lent, and you could help communities find innovative, sustainable ways of growing enough food in harsh conditions – like a flood resistant floating garden, or a solar powered water pump for times of drought – so they can feed their families.