March 1, First Sunday of Lent

Your ways, O Lord, are love and truth to those who keep your covenant. --Psalm 25:10

Mass readings: Genesis 9:8-15 / 1 Peter 3:18-22 / Mark 1:12-15

Temptation and Sin

Today's Gospel tells us that ''the Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert'' and there He was ''tempted by Satan.'' It could be said His final preparation for public ministry was a private retreat -- a time spent with the Father. But that didn't mean it was a period without its own trials. Like us, He had to deal with temptation.

There are so many inducements to sin around me in my everyday life: advertisements telling me constantly that this world is of more importance than God; the desire to look good in the eyes of the world through having lots of money and possessions; the lure of power and sex. But, like Jesus, I don't have to give way. I can have His help. All I need do is ask for it.

Prayer: Lord, save me in my times of trial.