Finding Our Way in the Wilderness: Turning Away from Loneliness – Rev. Kollin Absher-Baer (First on Chatham)

First Cary UMC's First on Chatham Sermon "Finding Our Way in the Wilderness: Turning Away from Loneliness” –  Rev. Kollin Absher-Baer – Sunday, April 6, 2025

Scripture: Luke 22:39:46

Throughout the season of Lent,  we have witnessed the devil’s temptation towards Jesus in the wilderness, and explored all of the ways that Jesus turns away from them. But how many of us would find ourselves clinging to the temptations of the world - promises of worldly desire, power, and pride - if it weren’t for the presence of God? In Luke 22,  Jesus retreats to the Mount of Olives, the disciples follow him. Before leaving the disciples to pray, he encourages them to pray against the temptations of the world. When he steps away to pray by himself, it becomes clear that he is not alone. For the promise and presence of God through the angels surrounds him. In the wilderness, we need God and one another to turn away from loneliness.