March 5, 2017 1st Sunday of Lent-A

Genesis 2:7-9, 3:1-7

Psalm 51

Romans 5:12-19

Matthew 4:1-11

The serpent said to the woman: “You certainly will not die!”  Genesis 3:4

Satan said to him, “All these I shall give to you if you will worship me.”  Matthew 4:9

Lord, your time in the desert was a real human experience.  You faced hunger, loneliness, cold, heat and temptations to sin.  Like Adam and Eve you were told the lie that sin isn’t so bad.  In fact, the lie continues that the consequences of sin can actually be good for you.  As far a temptation goes you could say that you’ve “been there, done that”.  Unlike our first parents however you prevailed over the lies and temptations.  Lord, because you are like us in every way you know the challenges we face in rejecting the temptations to sin.  The lies can be so attractive and even compelling.  Sin seems to have its greatest appeal when I am weak.  As I enter the desert of Lent, I pray for the grace to identify the lies told me by the world, the devil and myself.  Help me to not be discouraged by setbacks but to keep faith in your constant love and your powerful grace.  Thank you, Jesus, for leading me through the desert this Lent.  Amen