The Gift of Temptation for Jesus and the Rest of Us
written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“And do not lead us to the time of trial. ”
Emotional and spiritual self-awareness is vital to a healthy and meaningful life. The Gospels provide several examples of Jesus modeling healthy emotional responses in challenging situations. The temptation account is a prime example of healthy reactions in an emotionally complicated moment. All three synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) intentionally place the temptation story at the beginning of his ministry.
Jesus’ faceoff with the devil conveys the Messiah’s healthy emotional intelligence. With each temptation, Jesus recognizes what is essential in his life and work and understands the devil’s lack of resources to provide what he promises. A less emotionally healthy individual would succumb to the false dreams offered. Each of the synoptic gospels implies that everyone will be tempted similarly. Faith and emotional intelligence are required to remain faithful and whole.
In the book, The Emotional Intelligence of Jesus, Roy Oswald proclaims, “By placing the temptation story as the prelude to Jesus’ ministry, the Gospels are saying that this confrontation with one’s demons is the paradigmatic [standard] experience necessary for true discipleship.” Unlike Jesus, we may not pass all our temptation moments, but through trial, error, and faithful responses, we experience and learn the truth from falsehood and power from false claims. Experiencing life’s temptations helps us understand how to be faithful followers of our Triune God.
Temptation is difficult and something we often seek to avoid. Oswald reminds us that the Lord’s Prayer includes a plea not to be led into temptation. Temptation is necessary because only through the discomfort can we learn to feel it, recognize it, and respond faithfully. Today, open yourself to the discomfort of temptation so you will not be surprised when it approaches. Then, you will learn to be emotionally and spiritually mature. Through our lifelong temptation experiences, we learn and grow if we dare to face our demons with courage and trust in the Spirit’s leading.
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