Beasts and Angels
Scripture: Mark 1:12-15
Introduction: In the desert of our souls, we encounter both beasts and angels.
Reflection
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments of solitude akin to the desert experience of Jesus can feel like an impossible task. Yet, amidst the cacophony of daily existence, there lies an invitation—an invitation to carve out a sacred space within our hearts, a sanctuary where the voices of distraction are silenced, and the whispers of the Divine can be heard.
In today's fast-paced world, we are bombarded with a multitude of voices from the moment we wake until we finally surrender to sleep. The incessant chatter of social media, the constant barrage of news headlines, the demands of work and relationships—all compete for our attention, drowning out the gentle call of the Spirit. It's amidst this noise that we often lose sight of ourselves, our true essence buried beneath layers of societal expectations and self-doubt.
But just as Jesus retreated into the wilderness to confront the wild beasts and angels within, so too can we embark on our own desert journey, shedding the distractions that cloud our vision and rediscovering the core of our being. Lent offers us a sacred opportunity to create a desert space within our hearts—a space where we can strip away the layers of illusion and ego, and come face to face with our true selves.
In the desert of our souls, we encounter both beasts and angels. The beasts represent our inner struggles, our fears, and insecurities—the voices of self-doubt and temptation that seek to lead us astray. Yet, amidst the darkness, there also dwells the presence of angels—the whisperings of grace, love, and divine guidance that illuminate our path and offer solace in times of trial.
Too often, however, we fail to recognize the beasts within us, succumbing to the siren call of ego and pride. We become entangled in the web of materialism and superficiality, seeking validation in the transient pleasures of the world. Similarly, we may overlook the angels in our midst, dismissing moments of grace and beauty as mere coincidence or luck.
Yet, it is in the silence and solitude of the desert that we come to know ourselves as we truly are. Stripped of the distractions that cloud our vision, we are forced to confront the depths of our souls—to acknowledge our strengths and weaknesses, our fears and desires. It is a journey of self-discovery, a pilgrimage into the heart of our being.
In the desert, we learn to reconcile with the beasts and angels within us—to embrace the fullness of our humanity with all its complexities and contradictions. We come to understand that the wild beasts are not to be feared, but rather, to be embraced as part of the tapestry of our existence. Similarly, we learn to recognize the angels that grace our lives—to open our hearts to the divine presence that dwells within and around us.
Lent beckons us to embark on this desert journey—to create a sacred space within our hearts where we can commune with the Divine. It is a time to set aside the distractions of daily life, to retreat into the inner sanctuary of our souls, and to listen for the still, small voice of God. It is a time to rediscover who we are before the eyes of the Divine—to reclaim our identity as beloved children of God, fearfully and wonderfully made.
In the desert of Lent, we are invited to say yes to God and no to Satan—to choose the path of light and love over the seductive allure of darkness and despair. It is a journey of transformation, a pilgrimage of the soul, where we emerge from the wilderness renewed and refreshed, ready to embrace the challenges and joys of life with open hearts and minds.
So, as we journey through this season of Lent, let us heed the call of the desert—to create a sacred space within our hearts where the voices of distraction are silenced, and the voice of the Divine can be heard. Let us embrace the beasts and angels within us, reconciling with the fullness of our humanity. And let us emerge from the wilderness renewed and refreshed, ready to walk in the light of God's love. Welcome to Lent! Welcome to the desert!
May the heart of Jesus live in the hearts of all. Amen…
