That conversation that we just overheard in this morning’s Gospel from the fourth chapter of Matthew? I’m betting it’s not Jesus’ first go-round with the Tempter. I mean, he’s thirty years old, according to tradition. Way past adolescence. In fact, with the average life expectancy what it was in first century Palestine, he is middle aged! Plus, he’s a deeply faithful Jew, steeped in the stories of his people: stories of God’s divine call, and faithfulness and mercy; of their human struggle, and failure, and disobedience.
And he has been preparing for his mission – God has been preparing him – for a long time. For years, Jesus has been listening and learning, studying and wrestling, on his way to becoming the prophet, teacher, healer and savior, whose impact on human history will be, well, immeasurable.
Finally, he’s ready to go. He’s met John the Baptist. He’s waded into the waters of the Jordan, heard God declare he is the beloved Son, felt the Spirit fill him…and then take him into the wilderness for one more boxing match with the devil. One more reckoning with “the father of lies”...(read more)
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