Submitted by Visitor (not verified) on Fri, 19/02/2010 – 15:42
Year C (2009-2010)
Bible Book: Luke / Lukas
Chapter: 4
Verse: 1 – 13
Luke 4:1-13 answers questions about our relation to Christ. “Who is He?” “Who are we?” “How can we live through him and how should we live after him?”
The temptation narrative demonstrates the humanity of Jesus. He is tempted, not to do bad deeds, but with deeds that could make a huge difference. Feeding the hungry, ruling the earth and a powerful faith all seem very good. However, Jesus sees that this was not according to God’s intent, and therefore He rejects the temptations. For us Jesus is the one who overcomes temptation and leads us out of the temptations.
For leaders in communities of faith, to do the good things, without discerning God’s intent and plan is a very real temptation. We are tempted by the relevance of the moment; we are tempted by power and by our own need for affirmation by others. As followers of Christ, we should reject these temptations just as Jesus did. For us, He sets an example in how to deal with these temptations.
I believe there are a few things that Christian leaders should do. Leaders should learn to discern between the real needs of people and the requirements of success – and to respond to the real needs. Leaders need to live with loyalty and in alliance to God – and to commit themselves to serve those in need in the manner that Jesus served. Leaders have to trust God and to reject the temptation to commit God to results that humans have planned. Christian leaders should be listening, praying, and trusting leaders.
The HIV and AIDS pandemic require faithful leadership in communities and in the homes of those living with or otherwise affected by HIV and AIDS. We are always tempted to do things without understanding the need of those affected. We are always tempted to act powerfully to create plans and programs to benefit those affected, without consulting them or others. We are often tempted to pronounce God’s will in a way that is both judgmental and wrong. For us Jesus is the One who overcame these temptations. We live through Him and after Him as His listening, praying, and trusting disciples.
To think about or discuss: In practical terms, what are the temptations that Christian leaders and workers are exposed too? How can we effectively deal with these temptations?
Author: J Pieters (Ds)
Language: English