Lent I (year A)- Romans 5: 12-19

The Gospel for the First Sunday in Lent is the familiar story of Jesus' tem[tation in the wilderness. Often this story is discussed as an example for us, and on one level, it is. However, our Lord is much more than a good example. The deeper meaning of Christ's Temptation and His entire ministry on earth is brought out in today's second reading from Romans 5: 12-19. The key conclusion by the Apostle Paul comes in Romans 5:18-19, "Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous." 

Jesus Christ is the New Adam, the greater man, who overcomes temptation, sin, and the devil. By His triumph over evil, He offers human beings a new beginning. He offers us new life and righteousness. The whole of His Incarnation reflects this work to save and renew human life. We see this redeeming work at His Temptation as we see it all the way to His Death and Resurrection. May His ongoing victories over sin and death be applied in our lives through faith!

Ash Wednesday and Lent- Matthew 6: 19-21

There are many ways to approach Ash Wednesday, Lent, and our time of preparation for Easter. We often focus on the important disciplines of prayer, fasting, and acts of charity. But this week, some familiar words from the Gospel struck me in a new way. In Matthew 6:19-21(ESV), Jesus says, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

These words apply to our lives in many ways. We are generally aware that we Christians should not be overly concerned about earthly treasures. The principle always applies. However, it has particular relevance to us during Lent. This season is a stark reminder to consider where our treasures really are. Lent is about renewing our Christian priorities. So whatever our personal disciplines during this time, let us evaluate our pursuit of heavenly or spiritual treasure. Living by faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior is the greatest treasure!