TEMPTATION: A DESIRE TO DO WRONG
No human being is a stranger to temptation because temptation comes to all of us. The question, then, is not whether we will be tempted, but how will we respond to it? The moments of trials and temptations are opportunities through which we reassess our values and priorities, our goals and ambitions, reminding us of what is most important in life and hold on to it.
WHY RESIST TEMPTATIONS?
This is one way to understand the otherwise baffling (and seemingly problematic) claim that James makes in today’s first reading. The apostle tells us that ‘Blessed is he who perseveres in temptation”. Whenever we are faced with trials and troubles, setbacks and adversity. Is this good pastoral advice? Is it even rational to persevere?
IN TRIALS, FAITH IS BEING PURIFIED
James tells us that ‘happy the man who stands in the days of trials’-in the tears and sorrows that come our way—not because there is anything intrinsically good about those experiences, but because through them our faith can be cleansed and deepened.
GOD IS FAITHFUL
Perhaps the most important lesson we can learn from temptation about the nature of genuine faith is that faith is the steadfast and resilient conviction that no matter what might be happening in our lives, God is faithful and trustworthy.
This is the lesson that Christ is trying to teach his disciples several times yet they did not grasp fully his message.
MIRACLES: SIGNS OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS
Mark presents this attitude again in today’s gospel, and we see Jesus making reference to many instances that he performed wonders among them and all the people; regarding those moments as indication of God faithfulness so that come what may, they are to persevere and remain steadfast.
LET YOUR FAITH MOVE THE MOUNTAINS…AND GIVE YOU UNDERSTANDING
” Faith had subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions”. Hebrews 11:33.
Faith had moved mountains to the sea and cover the hills, it has filled the valleys and taken the waters against their course. If God cares for you, can you trust him for your soul and body, for your decisions and trials?
He has never refused to bear your burdens, he has never fainted under their weight. Come, then, soul! have done with fretful care, and leave all thy concerns in the hand of a gracious God.
Today and everyday, take control of your life through faith in God. Pray for the gift of understanding. The Lord will help you to overcome all challenges and possess your possessions in Jesus name.”Amen.
Wait on the Lord, and keep His way, and He shall exalt you to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, you shall see it”. Psalm 37:34.
Fr. Joseph
