A New Look at the Devil: Lent, Temptation, and Choosing Love Over Revenge

In a reflective essay for Living Lutheran, retired ELCA pastor Kristin D. Anderson revisits Martin Luther’s understanding of the devil and explores how evil can appear in everyday behaviors—accusing, gossiping, vengeance-seeking and more. Through Scripture, pastoral experience, and a Lenten lens of self-examination, Anderson reminds readers that while the devil seeks to corrupt and divide, Christ’s victory on the cross frees us to respond with forgiveness and love.

This thoughtful Lenten reflection invites readers to examine their own responses to harm and temptation and to rediscover the grace that leads us away from revenge and toward reconciliation. Read the full reflection at Living Lutheran.