I have hidden Thy word in my heart.

Matthew 4. The Chapter begins with the temptation of Christ. Jesus after His baptism fasted for 40 days and nights (if you think that is not doable, I can tell you that it is). During His fasting satan comes to tempt Him. First temptation: Physical need, “If you are the Son of God command these stones to become bread” (Verse 3).  Jesus’ reply, “It is written: ‘Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God'” (Verse 4). The second temptation: Demonstration of power, satan takes Jesus to the highest point of the temple “‘If you are the Son of God.’ he said, ‘throw yourself down’. ‘For it is written: He will give His angels charge concerning You, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone'” (Verses 5-6). Christ’s reply, “‘It is written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test'” (Verse 7). The final temptation: Authority, satan takes Jesus to the mountain and shows Him the kingdom of the world, “‘All this I will give You’, he said, ‘if You will bow down and worship me'” (Verse 9).  Jesus replied, “‘Away from me, satan! For it is written’: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only'” (Verse 10). Christ was tempted in all the areas that we struggle the most, yet He withstood. Yes, I know He was God and man, but understand this: His humanity was not a cover that He threw on. He felt what we feel. He understands our weakness and out frailty. He was 100% man (it wouldn’t have been called temptation if He wasn’t). Lastly, I saw something else while reading this Chapter, something that I understand a little differently (now that I have just finished reading the Old Testament). After His temptation Jesus begins His ministry. He preaches this, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near” (Verse 17). I use to read that and think that He meant time-wise. However after my journey through the old testament I think the meaning is twofold.  Yes, He is talking about time (His concept of it not ours). But I believe He is also talking about proximity, Jesus’ very presence had brought the kingdom of heaven to earth. People were communing and communicating with God! How sad that we were (and still are) too blind to know it.