Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness... — Matthew 4:1.
The first part of this verse reminds me that Christ experienced the wilderness like we all do. This happened right after His baptism where the Father proclaimed, "This is my Son." It went from a glorious event to a wilderness moment in Christ's life: His temptation. Although Jesus resisted the temptation, it served as a reminder that wilderness experiences are a part of life for everyone, even Him. When times are at their best, one can celebrate and experience life in a jovial manner. However, it is in the wilderness experience that one can experience God in a more authentic way. It is in the moments of hurt, pain, hopelessness, despair, confusion, doubt, and sin where one can call out to God, and He responds. It may not be the answer we want, but nevertheless, He responds.
Whether it was the sudden death of my father or other personal challenges, God held me. The wilderness was difficult to experience, but the aftermath was worth being patient and keeping the faith. The wilderness journey exposed my anger, but God still loved me. Years have gone by, and the wilderness experience comes and goes. The only difference is I focus on the faithfulness of God through Jesus Christ, because He still holds me.
