In the first reading today, we hear about the first sin, that of Adam and Eve. God told them they could eat anything they wanted except the fruit of one particular tree. Seems simple enough, until Satan entered the picture. He twisted God’s truth, and convinced them that they would be so much better off if they disobeyed God and put what they wanted ahead of what God wanted. We, of course, know what happened next; they were not happy with the end result and through their actions sin came into the world, impacting all of humankind…including us! But all is not lost…God in His mercy sent Jesus to redeem us. St. Paul tells us that, just as sin entered the world through one man, so one Man saved everyone who believes in Him and chooses to follow Him. Yet, temptation still exists. Jesus was tempted in the desert by Satan just as we are today, with riches, power, and comfort. Jesus responded by choosing to follow God’s desires rather than listening to the Tempter. That is the path that leads to life and happiness. We, however, are not Jesus, and we don’t always make the right choices. Lent is our special time to recognize our failings and to pray as David did…” be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.” It is a time to repent, and ask for God’s continuing gift of Grace that we might do better at overcoming temptation in our lives. God is always waiting to pour out His Grace on us, but it is up to us to ask with sincere hearts. May we use this Lenten season to honestly look at our lives to see where we have failed and ask God’s forgiveness and help. Reflection by parishioner, John Ceglarek