Mark 1:9-15 New International Version

Based on another tragic gun incident, we as followers of Jesus find ourselves in the wilderness again.  Another 17 killed this time in Florida and another community devastated and looking for answers.  What should we do and how should we respond in these wilderness moments?

“Solitude is the place of the great struggle and the great encounter – the struggle against the compulsions of the false self, and the encounter with the loving God who offers himself as the substance of the new self.” Henri Nouwen

Who are we in the wilderness?  Who do we believe ourselves to be?  Jesus goes into the furnace of transformation.  If Jesus is led into the furnace where the heat of temptation pursues him, what should we expect as followers of Jesus?  Jesus offers us some insight!

Listen for the voice of God!
At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.  Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.  And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”   Mark 1:9-11

Go where the Spirit leads and Speak!
At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan.  He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.  After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God.  “The time has come,” he said.  “The kingdom of God has come near.  Repent and believe the good news!”   Mark 1:12-15

Hear the W.O.W., the Words of Wisdom,
“Witness happens in the wilderness!”