S – Scripture
“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.’ At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.”
— Mark 1:9–13 (NIV)
O – Observation
It’s surprising: right after Jesus is affirmed as the beloved Son, the Spirit sends Him into the wilderness. The Greek word for “sent” here (ekballei) is actually much stronger — it means “to drive out” or “to thrust out.” The same word Mark later uses for driving out demons. This shows that the wilderness was not an accident or punishment, but a deliberate and necessary step in God’s plan. In love, the Spirit drove Jesus into a place of testing — not to destroy Him, but to prepare Him. Before Jesus began to heal others, He Himself entered the place of struggle and spiritual battle. The wilderness became the training ground where obedience, identity, and trust were refined.
A – Application
This story encourages me deeply. It reminds me that even when life feels barren or confusing, that doesn’t mean God’s love has left me. The Spirit who fills us also leads us into places of testing — not to destroy us, but to strengthen us.
It also gives hope as I think of friends who suffer: some battle depression, some face struggles in their marriages, and others live with physical pain or limitation. The wilderness takes many forms, and often feels lonely. Yet we can trust that God’s Spirit is still present there, just as He was with Jesus.
While Jesus was alone with the wild animals, He was not abandoned — angels cared for Him. Likewise, our wilderness experiences can deepen our empathy for others. Having walked through our own deserts, we can walk more gently with those who struggle. The wilderness can strengthen not only our bond with God but our compassion for one another once we emerge from it.
P – Prayer
Father, thank You that Your Spirit never abandons us, even in the hardest places. When life feels like a wilderness, remind us that You are still speaking love over us. Strengthen my faith, and let every trial draw me closer to You and to others who suffer. Teach us to see the wilderness not as punishment, but as preparation — the place where love grows deep roots. Amen.
