We should never pray for a life free from temptations for they serve a good purpose. Each day we are faced with temptations (or 'tests' as the word actually means). They teach us about ourselves and show us the ways in which we are strong or weak. When we resist temptation we are transformed and strengthened. We should regard them as 'friends' for it is by struggling with temptation that we grow spiritually. And at the same time we can open ourselves to the inspiration of generosity and kindness that God will send down upon us from above. Every temptation is an opportunity and an open door to the realm of the spirit.

Just a little bit of negativity can affect an entire community or workplace. We've probably had first-hand experience with this. There is always an individual who will inject a bit of pessimism, cynicism, gloom, or viciousness in every situation. This negativity is similar to yeast - a little bit goes a very long way! Jesus warns against the yeast of the Pharisees and of Herod - old ways of thinking, ideas that are worn out, as well as thinking based on selfishness and fear. We need new and fresh ways of thinking and we must always ensure that we don't allow negative energy to capture our hearts and minds. In every situation let us represent the yeast of the Spirit and of love.