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The women in Lokho’s community work together in the vegetable garden
“He ate nothing during those days. And when they were over, he was hungry. ”
In today’s gospel, we hear how Jesus goes out into the desert. He remains there for forty days, without food. Like Lokho and her community in northern Kenya, Jesus experiences what it means to live in the harshest conditions. We are not surprised to learn that at the end of this time, he is hungry.
During this difficult experience however, Jesus is never alone. He is filled with the Holy Spirit, who strengthens him throughout his time of preparation and prayer.
When we face challenges, we can feel isolated and lonely, but our faith teaches us that God is always with us. Knowing that we are never abandoned, that God is by our side, strengthens us as we strive to overcome our difficulties.
It can also lead us in turn to stand alongside those who are facing serious challenges in our world today. Working together with others can make a real difference, whether in our local community, or in our wider global family.
As Lokho says, when talking about the group of women who work on the vegetable garden with her: “We do appreciate the sense of solidarity because unity is a strength – that is what we believe. Everything in this place is done as a community.”
Prayer
God who walks with us, and knows what it is to be hungry, teach us to walk alongside one another and to work together to overcome the challenges in our world. Amen.
Act
Volunteers are crucial in helping others to feel less alone. They give of their time and energy in service to others and they make a real difference both in their local communities and around the world.
Fire of hope
A prayer giving thanks for the chance to connect with other people around the world and praying for hope, joy and courage as we build one global family.