Deuteronomy 26:4-10 Romans 10:8-13 Luke 4:1-13
Today is the first Sunday of Lent, and as in every Lent, our gospel is a presentation of the temptation of Jesus in the desert. This year we read from Luke. While there are many ways to view the three temptations we see in the gospel, let us look at them today through the lens of power.
We see the devil tempt Jesus with power. First, he suggests that Jesus use his power to turn stones into bread. After all, Jesus has been fasting and must be hungry. "You can do it. Go ahead! Take care of yourself, first,” he seems to say. Then the devil offers Jesus more power. “All the power and glory of all the kingdoms of the world,” he says, “have been given to me. And I can give all that to you!” Finally, from the parapet of the temple in Jerusalem, the devil suggests that Jesus create the astounding spectacle of leaping into the air, causing God to surround him with protecting angels! What a show to the crowds below at the temple! To actually control God! How powerful you would look, he insinuates.
Jesus refuses to fall for these temptations. Yet, our gospel concludes with the hint that the devil will be back again.
Power is intoxicating. Always and everywhere. It seems to be part of the human DNA. It is tempting to think of power as wielded only by the rich and famous. But we each have our own kind of power. It may not make headlines like the powerful antics of some, but it is still effective.
We have personal power in our relationships. The way we talk to people, the way we listen to people can make others feel valued and worthy or… insignificant and unimportant. We can meet the needs of others with generosity… or stinginess. They will get the message. What did Jesus do?
And we have political power. We can ignore injustice and oppression or… we can speak out against structures that demean or marginalize the many for the sake of the few. What did Jesus do?
This Lent how will you exercise the power God has given you? Will you follow those who wield power for their own benefit or will you use the power you have to help the powerless?
by: Pat Schnee
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