Reflection: Tempted in the Wilderness

Where does the 46 days (40 when we subtract the Sundays) of Lent come from? We trace it back to the 40 days and 40 nights Jesus spent in the Judean wilderness following his baptism in the Jordan River. Jesus spent time preparing for the critical ministry ahead. 

During that time, Jesus was tempted by the devil. He was offered food while He fasted. He was encouraged to jump from the Temple so people would see the power of God. He was offered all the kingdoms of the world. Yet Jesus accepted none of them. Todd explains that within those three temptations are three lessons for us: Avoid putting our needs in front of others, avoid taking advantage of others, and don't succumb to power and prestige.