Our Catechism says, “By the solemn forty days of Lent, the Church unites herself each year to the mystery of Jesus in the desert” (CCC, 540).
In light of that point, it is fitting that the Gospel reading for this first Sunday of Lent focuses on Christ’s 40-day fast in the wilderness. Jesus was hungry, thirsty, tempted and tried — but he overcame these trials in victory! During the 40 days of Lent, we can unite ourselves with Jesus by fasting and praying along with him.