Ash Wednesday 1st Day in Lent!

Matthew 4:1-2
“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.  After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.”

Right after Jesus was baptized by John, the Spirit led him into the wilderness, where he fasted for 40 days. Before Jesus did anything in his earthly ministry he was led by the Holy Spirit to spend time in prayer and fasting. As he was led by the Holy Spirit, the devil also saw it as an opportunity to tempt Jesus. The word also means “test”.  Perhaps the Holy Spirit knew that Jesus needed to do battle in the wilderness before he could begin his public ministry. Lent is a period of 40 days where, if we choose, can fast from the things of this world that distract us from God. As you begin your Lenten journey commit to spend each day engaging in God’s word, listening for His still, small voice, and praying and committing your day to following Him.

Jesus, we pray that this season of Lent can be a time of preparation for us as we take time out of our busy lives to meet with you in the wilderness. In Your name, Amen. 

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