Mark 1:9-15 (NRSV)
Read Mark 1:9-15 on biblegateway.com
Verse 9In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. Verse 10And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. Verse 11And a voice came from heaven, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased." Verse 12And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. Verse 13He was in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.
Verse 14Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, Verse 15and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news."
Devotion
Someone once said that character is measured by one’s actions in the face of adversity. That certainly fits with Jesus’ experience in the wilderness. For 40 days, he had to stand up to temptation. When he’s put to the test, he manages to pass it. But then, he’s Jesus. What else would you expect?
Relating to this passage can be hard for that very reason. Of course Jesus is going to pass the test. But what about us? Do we have what it takes?
Perhaps the value in being put to the test is not that we pass, but that such tests help us become the persons we are meant to be. Every time we face temptation, every time we find ourselves in a sticky situation, every time we feel as though we cannot get through what lies ahead – we have a chance to grow in character. But more than that, we have a chance to grow closer to Jesus, who knows what it’s like to face adversity in life, and who promises to walk with us every step of the way.
Prayer
God of mercy, be with us as we face life's trials and temptations. May your strength be our strength. In Jesus' name. Amen.