Temptation

“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” Matthew 26:41

Francis of Assisi (1182-1226) lived a life of high highs and low lows. He experienced things in contemplation and meditation that most of us could only dream of. His disciples swore they saw him actually levitating many times. An imprint of his hands that were burned into a cave wall during an unusually intense spiritual struggle could be seen in the rocks 150 years after he had died. On Mt. Alverna, it is said that Francis received the marks of the Stigmata (the wounds of Christ) in September of 1224. While I don’t believe all that tradition says about this remarkable man, the incidents I’ve just mentioned were confirmed by so many people that I’m led to believe they are likely true, even if they sound fantastic.

And yet when you read Francis’ life, you learn that he was often beset by regular temptations and struggles. His spirituality was not one rapturous experience after another but was rather intertwined with struggle, sickness, infirmity, and even spiritual attack.

This is an important point because some of us mistakenly believe that the closer we draw to God, the easier life becomes and the less temptation overwhelms us. Christ in Gethsemane, however, should lay that thinking to rest. Spiritual maturity and obedience don’t lead to a carefree life, but to intense spiritual struggle. Part of observing Lent is to more intentionally and proactively engage in this struggle. Our tears of repentance during Lent, our renewed struggles against sin, will make the Hosannas of Easter and the forgiveness proclaimed through Christ’s resurrection sweeter.