In which the disciples and Mary grapple with uncertainty and patient hope after the sudden absence of the Messiah, whilst the Son of God, fasting in the desert, contemplates his mission and withstands the Tempter’s subtle and cunning offers of earthly sustenance and power. The discourse unfolds with a sober meditation on virtue, riches, and true kingship, distinguishing inner sovereignty from outward rule, in a manner befitting the high and solemn strain of divine deliberation.