Each year
as Lent approaches
my mind usually focuses
on temptations that I anticipate
as I prepare to embark
on six long weeks
without coffee, chocolate and sweets.

But this year
as Lent approaches
I remember
that when Jesus was tempted in the desert
he was tempted in many different ways
and I wonder in what variety of ways
I might be tempted?

Will I be tempted
to ignore the fact
that I have not truly forgiven
people who have hurt me in the past?
Will I be tempted
to justify grudges that I bear,
telling myself
that I can’t possibly be expected
to wipe the slate clean,
to act as if nothing had ever happened?

Will I be tempted
to be less than gracious
when an apology is offered
for an offence committed?

Will I be tempted
to abandon myself
to a sense of helplessness
and despair
when faced with a situation
which I am powerless to control
instead of entrusting the situation
to the loving care
of my all-powerful God?

As Lent approaches,
I’m aware
of tremendous potential for temptation
and I wonder
whether I will choose
to give in to temptation
or to draw closer to My God?

© Claire Murray, 17th Feb 2015