And the Spirit immediately drove (Jesus) out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness forty days, tested by Satan, and he was with the wild beasts, and the angels waited on him. ~ Mark 1:12-13
That same gentle dove throws Jesus out into the wilderness. The same Spirit that came through the torn apart heavens, now shakes things up by making sure Jesus goes where he needs to.
We usually call this the temptation of Jesus, but we're told here it is a testing. As Jesus gets ready to begin his ministry, he needs first to be grounded in the reality of what he will face along the way.
In order to share the promise of God's goodness, he had to first meet evil face to face.
The Spirit drives him there, but doesn't leave him alone and then guides him out again.
Jesus comes through undoubtedly battle weary, but also ready: prepared and strengthened.
He has the knowledge of God's love and also the confidence of knowing he can face whatever comes his way.
When was a time in your life you felt like you were being tested?
What was the outcome? Did you feel stronger? Or not? Why or why not do you think?
Did Jesus need to be tested?
Spirit of God, guide me through moments of testing so that I may come out stronger and wiser. Amen