What do we need the most? In today’s world, many people seek validation through the hearts, likes, cares, and wow reactions on their social media accounts. They often go to great lengths to capture the attention of others, sometimes becoming people pleasers in the pursuit of followers and likes. While some may insist this is what they truly enjoy, the reality is that when they fail to receive the desired reactions, they often feel sad and unfulfilled.
This Sunday’s Gospel presents the powerful story of Jesus' temptation in the desert. He faced three challenges from the devil: to turn stones into bread, to throw himself from the temple, and to worship the devil for worldly power. Amidst these temptations, Jesus remained unwavering. He focused not on what he wanted but on what he needed—his relationship with God. Unfazed by the allure of worldly approval, he steadfastly pursued God’s will.
We, too, face similar temptations. The pressure to follow societal trends can be overwhelming, and when we struggle to keep up, we risk becoming miserable. We may find ourselves depending on the comments and validation of the world. When we do not meet societal expectations or face trials, we might feel abandoned by God. Yet, we must remember that God allows us to experience these challenges because He knows we have the strength to overcome them. Patience in trials and steadfastness in faith are key.
As we journey through this Jubilee of Hope, let us remember our purpose as pilgrims. Our focus should not be on seeking earthly approval but on nurturing our relationship with God. Embracing trends and expressing ourselves on social media can be positive, but we must not let ourselves become reliant on the world’s validation. Instead of striving to please people, let us aim to please God.
May we find strength in this holy season of Lent to prioritize our spiritual journey over society's expectations. Let us be God pleasers, not people pleasers. May God bless us all as we continue our journey in faith.
