40 Days with Jesus
The season of Lent is a journey to the cross and the resurrection. Through this season of Lent I'll share devotions with a Native perspective.
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Matthew 4: Into the Wilderness
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Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tested by the devil.
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In Jesus’ time Messiahs (chosen ones) were not rare. In fact, they were a dime a dozen. There were philosophers and soldiers and teachers and tricksters. Some wanted to withdraw from the world. Some wanted to take over the world.
They all seemed to have one thing in common: Messiahs had a short life expectancy. So if you had a short time to save your people, what would you do first?
Jesus started by going to the wilderness. He went to fast, and pray, and listen. Native Americans call that Vision Quest.
The first thing a young warrior must do is go to the wilderness and wait for a vision--wait for God to speak. No one is ready to be a warrior until they know who they are and what battles they must face.
Jesus took time to examine himself and face his own demons. He knew the biggest battles are internal: the dark corners of our own minds. What are your battles? Are you fighting the demons God has called you to face?
It takes time and effort to face our own weakness. It takes fasting and prayer. And it takes time in the wilderness of the soul. It's a good thing we've got 40 days to work on this. Let's get started on this journey together.
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O Lord, let me walk in the wilderness with Christ today.