Temptation – Gary Thomas

“Watch and pray in order that you’ll not fall into temptation. The spirit is prepared, however the physique is weak.” Matthew 26:41

Francis of Assisi (1182-1226) lived a lifetime of excessive highs and low lows. He skilled issues in contemplation and meditation that the majority of us may solely dream of. His disciples swore they noticed him truly levitating many occasions. An imprint of his palms that had been burned right into a cave wall throughout an unusually intense religious wrestle may very well be seen within the rocks 150 years after he had died. On Mt. Alverna, it’s stated that Francis obtained the marks of the Stigmata (the injuries of Christ) in September of 1224. Whereas I don’t consider all that custom says about this outstanding man, the incidents I’ve simply talked about had been confirmed by so many individuals that I’m led to consider they’re doubtless true, even when they sound implausible.

And but while you learn Francis’ life, you study that he was usually beset by common temptations and struggles. His spirituality was not one rapturous expertise after one other however was somewhat intertwined with wrestle, illness, infirmity, and even religious assault.

This is a vital level as a result of a few of us mistakenly consider that the nearer we draw to God, the simpler life turns into and the much less temptation overwhelms us. Christ in Gethsemane, nevertheless, ought to lay that considering to relaxation. Non secular maturity and obedience don’t result in a carefree life, however to intense religious wrestle. A part of observing Lent is to extra deliberately and proactively have interaction on this wrestle. Our tears of repentance throughout Lent, our renewed struggles towards sin, will make the Hosannas of Easter and the forgiveness proclaimed via Christ’s resurrection sweeter.

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