His rule will stretch from sea to sea,
and from the river to the ends of the earth.
MATTHEW 4:8-10 (MSG)
The Devil took him to the peak of a huge mountain. He gestured expansively, pointing out all the earth’s kingdoms, how glorious they all were. Then he said, “They’re yours—lock, stock, and barrel. Just go down on your knees and worship me, and they’re yours.”
Jesus’ refusal was curt: “Beat it, Satan!”
THE ESSENCE
Jesus is the supreme ruler over all there is. Beware of those who see power as theirs to give.
DAILY FODDER
Why did the Devil offer Jesus what was already his?
PRAYER
Jesus, you are already the supreme leader. Forgive us for looking elsewhere for authority to do your work. Empower us to resist the tempations that draw us into autonomy and away from allegiance to you alone. Enable me to boldly and quickly refute the temptor. I'm going to live under your authority and do things your way. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER (ABP)
Our Father in Heaven,
we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
so that everything that happens here will align
with what is happening in heaven.
Our Father in Heaven,
we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
so that everything that happens here will align
with what is happening in heaven.
Give us enough food for today.
Forgive us our wrongdoing,
and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.
and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.
