Calm Before the Storm
C hurches and individuals are practicing a season of Lent, a 'giving up' as a preparation for Easter or an 'adding to' for the same reason. It is a time of reflection, a time of mourning, a time of awareness, and a recognition of how desperately we need and seek a Savior. Lent gives us an opportunity to anticipate the work of Easter. Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing at all during those days, and when they were over, he was famished. Luke 4:1-2 Tempted and tested before His public work began. Tempted and tested before the teaching in the temple, before the healing of ailing people. Time after time, tempted and tested. Tested about life needs and God's power. Sounds like real life. When least expected, a test comes, an unexplained hurt occurs, an accusation is voiced. Conversely, when least expected, a joy ...