First Sunday of Lent
February 26, 2012
Read Sunday’s gospel, Mark 1:12-15.
Gospel Summary
Jesus trusted in God’s promises. According to Mark’s
gospel, immediately after his baptism, Jesus was driven
into the wilderness where he lived with the wild beasts
for 40 days and was tempted by Satan. Through those
desolate days, Jesus was faithful to God. And at the end
of the 40 days, the angels came to minister to Jesus.
Reflection for
Families
If you have ever sat with a sick child, you know the
relief that comes when a fever breaks or the pox scab
and the corner of the child’s mouth turns up into a long
awaited smile. This must have been something of what
Jesus felt at the end of his stay in the desert and it
is what we feel when have been faithful to our Lenten
efforts.
Bringing the
Gospel into Your Family
This year as you begin Lent, talk as a family about why
the Holy Spirit took Jesus into the wilderness and why
he stayed there 40 days. It is likely you will name
things such as prayer, quiet time for reflection, doing
God’s will, and more. As you consider what individual
members or the whole family may do in the way of Lenten
practices this year, use Jesus as a model. Keep in mind
that the hardships of others may be much greater than
your own. Like the angels who came to Jesus’ side at the
end of the 40 days, perhaps your family can attend to
the needs of someone else.
Discussion Starters
- There have been times when I have been tempted to give in to a weakness of mine. One time I recall…
- God was with me during one of the greatest tests of my life. With God’s help I…
- This week to be sure I keep my Lenten promises I will…