The importance of our own desert experience in our personal spiritual journeys.

First Reading: Genesis 9: 8-15 |  Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25: 4-5, 6-7, 8-9 | Second Reading: 1 Peter 3: 18-22 |

Gospel: Mark 1: 12-15

This Sunday’s reflection is by,

Sharon Achieng

Receptionist, Africama House and JASBEAM Administrator.

As I sit at my desk in Africama House, I take advantage of the quiteness to reflect on the beginning of the Lenten season. As a receptionist, I typically work quietly behind the scenes, answering phones and welcoming visitors into and out of Africama. However, when fulfilling these daily obligations, it is all too easy to become engaged in the activities of my profession, oblivious to its greater spiritual importance. The Lenten season asks us to pause, look past the surface, and ponder what is important, just like Jesus did in the desert for forty days.

Today, as I reflect on the Gospel reading for the First Sunday of Lent, I am struck by the story of Jesus being brought into the desert. In the desert, Jesus endured temptation and struggle, but he triumphed thanks to his connection and belief in God. This story serves as a powerful reminder that Lent is about more than just forgoing our material possessions, but also about strengthening our spiritual connection and resilience with God. As we reflect on the gospel, we are reminded of the importance of our own desert experience in our personal spiritual journeys. Like Jesus, we may face trials, temptations, and uncertainties but our connection with God will get us through all the challenges. The desert represents a time of testing and purification in which we are challenged to confront our own flaws and grow closer to God.

I may not have had the same experience as Jesus in the desert, but I face my own hardships and temptations while doing my job. Sometimes I am inclined to let my frustrations with people take over, but this often prevents me from seeing my larger mission. This Lenten period inspires me to reject temptations and wicked thoughts that would prevent me from performing God’s work here on Earth. So, as I continue to work here at Africama House, I will carry with me the lessons Jesus taught us in the desert. When confronted with problems, I will take a step back and meditate, trusting God to guide me and provide the strength I need to withstand any temptations. 

As we go through this season of Lent, we are reminded to resist the temptations that would divert our focus away from the commitment to serve others with love and humility. May this season be one of transformation, abandoning old habits and discovering a new sense of purpose. And when we come out on the other side, may we stand tall, fuelled by gospel ideals and motivated to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.