Lord Jesus, we would rather see you strong than hungry and weak.

Forty days alone, no miracles, no eager crowds, no friendly space to buoy you up, no companion but the Evil One.

This is not the Jordan where the Father said:
"Here is my Son, listen to him." And the Spirit, like a dove, watched your every step.

Here alone, you are a weary man, tired by the daily strain, at the limits of your strength.

Where would we learn this story, but from you?
And did you speak of a lifetime more than forty days
Were your days like ours?

"Turn these stones into bread."
Were there days like desert stones, when you walked in waterless places, and grew weary doing good?

"All these kingdoms will be yours, if..."
Were there days when promises looked better broken;
right and truth only unreal dreams; and life secure somewhere else?

Temptation of Jesus

"Throw yourself down..."
Were there days when the journey step by step, simple words and simple deeds, hardly seemed to make a difference?

By the mystery of your temptation in the desert, Lord Jesus, have mercy on us.