Listen

At once the Spirit forced Jesus out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan. He was among the wild animals, and the angels took care of him. After John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee announcing God’s good news, saying, “Now is the time! Here comes God’s kingdom! Change your hearts and lives, and trust this good news!”

Mark 1:12-15

Think

Most summers I attend a youth conference as a small group leader. I live far away, and so I usually fly. This means one large suitcase for my clothes, bedding, and personal items and another large suitcase for supplies and decorations for the small group room.

My first year, I showed up with only a few things, but the other leaders gave me suggestions and loaned my group some supplies to use for the week. It’s always a crazy week, full of struggling through new relationships and discovering new truths, growing in faith. I spend most of the year telling others about the wonderful things God did during our time at the conference.

Jesus went into the wilderness to struggle, but he was fully equipped with the word of God. Mark doesn’t mention it, but the other Gospel accounts tell us that Jesus used scripture to ward off Satan’s tempting. Angels took care of Jesus, and he came out of the wilderness ready to shout God’s praises!

Angela Grover

Pray

Lord, you are amazing! Thank you for the ways you care for me. Help me to be prepared for whatever this day or this season has in store. Give me your word when temptation comes and let me remember to shout your praises. Amen.

Go

You are my strength when I am weak,
You are the treasure that I seek;
You are my all in all.

Seeking You as a precious jewel,
Lord, to give up I’d be a fool;
You are my all in all.

from “You Are My All in All” by Dennis L. Jernigan (1990)