Week 1 - Day 1 (Ash Wednesday)

Psalm 1 - The Word of God

As Lent begins, we are asked to consider Jesus’ journey into the wilderness to be tested by Satan (Matthew 4:1-11). This test prepares Him for His public ministry. It symbolizes Jesus’ identification with humanity and the temptations we face—lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. With each of the devil’s temptations, Jesus responds with God’s Word. The power of God’s Word can overcome any temptation.

Today’s Psalm highlights the subtle power of temptation. The use of the words “walking,” “standing,” and “sitting” visually represents the seductive, downward pull of sin. But there is hope! The seeking pilgrim finds strength by meditating on God’s Word. To meditate means to ponder and repeatedly turn over in your mind. When we do this, the Psalmist says, “That person will be like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither – whatever they do prospers.” Focusing our thoughts on scripture prepares us for any battle Satan sends our way.

It is important to note that the Psalmist warns us about the dangers of neglecting God’s Word. That unfortunate soul is like chaff or tumbleweed, lacking roots to battle the desert wind.

We begin our Lenten pilgrimage with Jesus’ victory over Satan. We are reminded that meditating on God’s Word is a powerful weapon in this battle. Victory is ours when we follow in the footsteps of the Chief Pilgrim.