In today’s Gospel, we read about the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert. In nearly every verse, Jesus is presented with choices. Each temptation is an invitation to take the easier way. But every time, Jesus is guided by faith.  

Catholic Social Teachings tell us of one of the most fundamental choices we make: to honor the sacredness of every human person. This is an easy choice—to treat others with kindness and open our hearts to love. But an easy choice still requires something from us. It can ask us to see beyond our frustrations, our differences, or our habits, and instead respond with patience, compassion, and generosity.  

As we begin this season, we are invited not just to give something up, but to give ourselves more fully in faith. To choose dignity. To choose compassion. To choose kindness—even when it costs us something.

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