Temptation

Welcome to Lent!

This Sunday we are starting with a double temptation.

On the one hand we have the temptation of Christ in the desert. The old Tempter follows him out into the wilderness after his Baptism and offers him three different versions of earthly glory - all of which Jesus denies. For he knows that God has a greater purpose for the Messiah than anything this world has to offer.

By contrast, our passage from Genesis is the original temptation of the first couple in the garden of Eden by the serpent (not a snake, it has legs). They are given the option to learn everything at once, something God tries to protect them from, and they take it. Can you imagine the headache? Ice cream ain't got nothing on that.

Believe it or not, these stories are not about obedience. Contrary to popular belief and dogmatic teaching. For centuries men in power have used these passages as an explanation for why disobedience is such a problem in order to keep others, especially women (and children), in line.

When, in fact, that was never the original sin.

The original sin was idolotry. Putting something else in God's place. Usually ourselves. Our own desires. Our own prejudices. Our own hatred. Our own pride. Our own glory.

Jesus succeeded at refusing. We mere mortals never have.

This weekend we will explore more.

See you soon!

Blessings,

Rev. Janie