Moments of Test

Reflection Date: February 22, 2026 First Sunday of Lent
Daily Readings: Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7; Romans 5:12-19 or 5:12, 17-19; Matthew 4:1-11

Children of God:
Forty years ago, on the evening of February 22, 1986, a dramatic moment unfolded in Philippine history. 

Cardinal Jaime Sin went on air through Radio Veritas with an urgent appeal to the Filipino people. 

He called on citizens to gather along EDSA to support soldiers who had broken away from an unjust regime. 

Ordinary men and women responded, bringing food, prayers, and rosaries instead of weapons. 

This peaceful revolution would later be known in history as the EDSA Revolution.

Millions filled the streets with faith, discipline, and unity. Tanks and guns were confronted but with flowers and songs. 

That moment showed how moral conviction can be stronger than brute power. 

A simple radio message helped change the destiny of a nation. 

It was a powerful example of resisting temptation to hatred and choosing the higher road.

In the gospel story of Matthew, Jesus faced his own decisive moment. 

After forty days of fasting in the desert, he was tempted by the devil three times. 

Each temptation tried to pull him away from his mission and identity. 

The devil offered shortcuts to power, comfort, and popularity. Jesus rejected every offer by standing firmly on the word of God. 

What are our inspirations for today?

First, faith in the Divine Providence.

The devil first tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread because Jesus was hungry (Matthew 4:3). 

It was an invitation to use power only for personal comfort. Jesus refused, answering that man does not live on bread alone (Matthew 4:4). 

He chose trust in the Father rather than instant gratification.

Many times, people today are tempted to choose comfort over conscience. Shortcuts, dishonest gain, and selfish decisions appear attractive. 

Yet the example of Jesus teaches self-control and obedience to God.

In moments of need, we are invited to hold on to values instead of surrendering to pressure. 

The easy road is not always the right road.

Second, worship must be given to God alone.

The devil offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the world if he would worship him (Matthew 4:8-9). 

It was a temptation to gain success without sacrifice. 

Jesus answered that only God must be worshiped and served (Matthew 4:10).

This shows that not every opportunity is a blessing. 

Some offers look attractive but lead away from truth and integrity. 

Jesus chose the path of humility rather than the path of false glory.

Today, people are constantly tempted by power, fame, and recognition. 

That’s why, the gospel invites everyone to examine motives and priorities.

In what areas of your life are we tempted to choose quick success over honest effort? How do we recognize whether an opportunity comes from God or from selfish ambition? What concrete steps can we take to remain faithful when temptations become strong?

Children of God:
Every day, we are faced with choices. Temptations do not always appear evil at first glance. 

Often they come disguised as practical, reasonable, and even necessary. 

But the gospel reminds us that not everything convenient is correct.

Jesus overcame temptations because he remained rooted in prayer and in the word of God. 

His victory gives courage to everyone facing personal trials. 

History shows that moral strength can change families, communities, and even nations. Every small act of resistance to evil is already a step toward freedom. 

The challenge is to keep trusting God in every trial. Like Jesus, we are called to stand firm and faithful.