Scripture

Matthew 4:1–11 — Jesus in the wilderness.
Identity, temptation, resilience, and trust.

Opening Worship (music)

• O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go (traditional version)
  O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go (contemporary version)
  or
• Abide With Me (Audrey Assad)

Opening Prayer

Holy One,
you meet us in the wilderness —
in our questions, our struggles, our searching.
Give us courage to be honest,
strength to endure,
and companions to walk beside us.
Amen.

Questions About the Text

• Who leads Jesus into the wilderness, and what does that suggest?
• What do the temptations reveal about Jesus’ identity and mission?
• How does Jesus use Scripture — and what does that teach us?
• What do you notice about the progression of the temptations?
• How does the presence of angels at the end shape your understanding of the story?

Reflection Questions

• What “wilderness” experiences have shaped you?
• Where do you feel tempted to take shortcuts or avoid discomfort?
• How do you discern God’s voice amid competing voices?
• Where have you experienced communal grace in your own wilderness?

Prayer Time

Imagine Jesus is beside you in your own wilderness.

Closing Music

• Be Still for the Presence of the Lord
  or
• You Raise Me Up (Josh Groban)