The first reading is straightforward in naming an essential point that God has delivered us from a certain negative power. What a great news! He calls it the power of darkness. So, darkness is a form of power. We sense the truth behind this statement when we are confronted by temptation. There we experience a contest of power: our power and the power of evil. Who becomes victorious in this struggle? Victory is not guaranteed us if we rely on our strength only. We must pray for God to empower us.

PRAYER: We cannot do without you, Lord; strengthen us and deliver us from the power of the enemy.