The traditional lesson for Compline, the final worship service of the day, is 1 Peter 5:8-9: “Be sober, be watchful. Your adversary the Devil prowls around like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour. Resist him firm in your faith.” Can you imagine evil as a ravenous beast seeking to devour you? It gives me the shivers. Nevertheless, I don’t find myself worrying much about the Devil gobbling me up. Evil? Sure I slip up once in a while, but I’m not in danger of falling into the jaws of the Wicked One. Or am I?

Most Christians impress me as being very nice people. I’m not so bad myself. I’m not perfect, but I don’t see myself as being involved in evil deeds. When I regard myself that way, the Devil like a roaring lion is about to take a bite out of me. If I lose the awareness of sin in me, I’m headed away from our Savior and right into the lion’s den.

Lent is a time to review life honestly. Luther’s Small Catechism suggests people ask themselves these questions when preparing for confession. “Have you been disobedient, unfaithful, or lazy? Have you been hot-tempered, rude, or quarrelsome? Have you hurt someone by your words or deeds? Have you stolen, been negligent, wasted anything, or done any harm?”

When we’re finished with our self-examination, we tell God we’re sorry, promise to do better, and believe with our whole heart that we are forgiven by the grace of Christ. It’s a great way to avoid the prowling, ravenous beast.

Read 1 Peter 5:6-11 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne