Lent: A Journey to Hope in Uncertain TimesSample

Biographers record that before beginning His public ministry, Jesus was baptized and led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit. Scholars give different interpretations on the spiritual significance of Jesus’ temptations, but Jesus’ response to each temptation certainly provides an example for believers to follow. Even more significant for our context—as we seek to find hope in uncertain times—is the fact that Jesus’ hope-giving ministry came on the other side of this challenging preparation. More often than not, authentic hope comes on the other side of hardship.

REFLECT

• What stands out to you about how Jesus responded to the temptations He faced?
• How do you think these challenges helped prepare Him to minister to those who needed hope?

RESPOND

• How does Jesus’ time in the wilderness speak to His ability to actively speak to challenges in our context and the hope needed on this earth?
• How does Jesus’ time in the wilderness speak to you and your need for hope in Him?
• Where do you need to surrender to Jesus more fully in your life so you can be filled with His hope?