In this Sunday's Gospel reading, Jesus is baptized, tempted in the wilderness and begins preaching the Good News in his home turf of Galilee.

Most interesting is the way Mark describes how Jesus goes into the wilderness. The original verb "ekballo" has been translated a variety of forceful ways, from "led" to "drove him out" and "thrust him forth." Now we all know that Jesus was a very willing participant in His life, so let's not misinterpret the verb. But it does give us insight into the Holy Spirit and how He works.

One can almost see the Spirit here as the jumpmaster on an airplane full of paratroopers who are willing to jump out of the plane, but nonetheless the jumpmaster gives them the "Go, Go, Go!" and gentle push out the door.

 That's the way the Holy Spirit is sometimes. While many times the Spirit is a still small voice, sometimes He is much more loud and brash. Perhaps because we need it!

St. Timothy's paratroopers: we are circling over our target of Lent -- 40 days of preparing and repenting. Are you ready to jump out of the plane and get to work? The Holy Spirit says, "Go, Go, Go!" Let's be attuned for and desire His gentle push.