First Reading (Genesis 2:7–9; 3:1–7)
In the very beginning, God made the first man in a very special way. He formed him from the clay of the earth — like a potter shaping something with his hands. Then God breathed His own breath into him, and the man became alive. God planted a beautiful garden called Eden. It was full of trees that were beautiful and full of good fruit to eat. In the middle of the garden were two important trees: The Tree of Life The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil God told them they could eat from any tree except one — the tree in the middle of the garden. One day, a clever serpent came and asked the woman, “Did God really say you cannot eat from any tree?” The woman explained that they could eat from every tree except one. But the serpent said, “You will not die. You will become like God.” The fruit looked beautiful and good. The woman chose to eat it and gave some to her husband. He ate it too. Right away, something changed. They felt ashamed and afraid. They realized they had disobeyed God. So they tried to hide and cover themselves. For the first time, sin entered the world — because they chose not to trust God.
Read full passagePsalm 51
This psalm is a prayer we say when we are sorry. It says: “Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.” It means: God, I know I made a mistake. Please forgive me. Wash my heart clean. Help me start again. Give me joy again. Stay close to me. God loves when we say sorry with an honest heart.
Read full passageSecond Reading (Romans 5:12–19)
Saint Paul explains something important. When Adam disobeyed God, sin entered the world. Because of that, people began to experience pain and death. But that is not the end of the story. God sent Jesus. Where Adam disobeyed, Jesus obeyed. Where sin brought sadness, Jesus brought grace. Where sin brought death, Jesus brought life. One mistake brought brokenness. But one act of love from Jesus brought salvation for everyone. God’s grace is bigger than our mistakes.
Read full passageGospel (Matthew 4:1-11)
After Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit led Him into the desert. He fasted for forty days and nights. He was very hungry. The devil came to tempt Him. First temptation: “Turn these stones into bread.” Jesus answered, “People do not live on bread alone, but on every word from God.” Second temptation: “Throw yourself down from the temple. God will save you.” Jesus said, “Do not test God.” Third temptation: “I will give you all the kingdoms of the world if you worship me.” Jesus replied, “Only God is to be worshiped.” Jesus chose to trust God every time. The devil left. Angels came and cared for Him. Jesus showed us how to stay strong when we are tempted.
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