Mark tells us very little about Jesus’ time in the wilderness. All we know is that he was there for forty days with wild beasts, was tempted by Satan and looked after by angels. Jesus prepared for his ministry and passion by allowing himself to be confronted by his demons. We commemorate this by observing the penitential season of Lent. Lent means "spring" and perhaps what we are being asked to do is some spiritual spring-cleaning.
In the past there was possibly an over-emphasis on sin. Today when we receive the ashes, the priest generally uses the words “Repent and believe the Good News.” In a time when we are fed with a diet of very bad news it is important to remember these words. If we read the Book of the Apocalypse, its powerful imagery reminds us of the ultimate triumph of good over evil, through the victory of the Lamb.
Maybe we need to create our own wilderness, where there is starkness and silence, where we can contemplate God’s goodness, free from the world’s cacophony of voices. Most people live good lives and maybe the best thing is to explore inner weaknesses which block full friendship with the Lord. The Spirit’s voice is usually very soft and gentle and needs time and space to be heard.