Who's in the Driver's Seat?
"The Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan. He was among wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him. After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God: 'This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.' ” Mark 1:12-15 Today's Gospel reading is the same theme as every first Sunday in Lent: Jesus in the desert, being tempted by Satan. For most Christians, this is familiar territory. For those who observe the Lenten fast, it is our example. Christ spent those 40 days in preparation for ministry. As we know from the other Gospel accounts (Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13), Jesus spent that time fasting. Mark's account says the Spirit "drove" Jesus into the desert. He compelled Jesus to go. Matthew and Luke use the word "led." The concept is of One who is surrounded by the ...