The Tempter

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Christ in the Wilderness - painting by Moretto da Brescia

I will give you all your heart desires.

The tempter waits.
He is vigilant in his observance.
He waits for you
in your wilderness,
seeking the moment
when you lose sight of the Lamb.

He will mock you
by offering the objects
you yearn for,
or the emotions you crave.

The tempter waits.
He is patient in his action.
Soon you will
hunger,
soon you will
thirst,
soon you will question
faith.

The Lamb has gone before you.
He has ventured out,
as example,
knowing the angels will protect Him,
lest He dash his foot
against a stone.

In His weakness
the Lamb protects His own.
In His weakness
there is more strength
than earthly kingdoms of gold,
or elaborate wealth.

I will give you all your heart desires.

The tempter waits,
for the wilderness to empty you,
into its vastness.
Without the weakness of the Lamb,
to save,
you would surely be lost.



copyright 2025 - Donald P James Jr

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