If we compare Lent to a wilderness experience, we can conjure many images.  Wilderness can be a welcome experience, as when we go camping, backpacking or hiking. 

Many of us have had vacations visiting nature’s splendor in the California Redwoods, the Florida Everglades or the Rocky Mountains.  We appreciate God’s power and greatness when we see such sights.  I don’t think of such majesty when I read the scripture passage above.  I don’t see lush hills or clear mountain lakes; I see dry, desolate desert.  Jesus is alone.  And He was led to this lonely place by God himself.

Have you ever found yourself in such a state---feeling alone, tired and forsaken?  When I am in such a wilderness, the last thing I want to know is that God has brought me here.  I feel betrayed, wonder what I did to deserve it.  At such times, I am reminded that I don’t have God’s perspective; I am too close to the loss of my own comfort.  I turn to the Psalms.  I pray and plead with God for my relief.  Once I am still, all I can hear of His voice is “Trust Me”. 

The wilderness I experience is not only lonely and desolate but also a time when I am tempted---tempted to be less than I can be.  I find myself surly and unfriendly, blaming everyone except myself for my misery.  My actions deny the promises of God for me.  I need His forgiveness. 

During Lent we have the opportunity to stop the busyness of our lives and consider again the sacrifice of Jesus.  If He was led into the wilderness and tempted by the devil, can I expect less?  Yet, I am not alone---even if I feel alone.  I am not betrayed---even if I feel betrayed.  I remember the sacrifice of Jesus---for me; the One who died for me will not forsake me.  I can rely on Him to bring me through the wilderness and beyond.  I pray the same for you.