X

2nd Sunday of Lent - March 13, 2022

As we continue our journey through the penitential Lenten season, we are reminded in our readings of the promise the Lord makes to us.  God asked Abraham to look up to the heavens and witness the countless stars in the sky.  Peter, James, and John looked up to the heavens and saw Jesus transfigured to shine like the sun.

It had been a troubled week for all the disciples.  Eight days before his transfiguration Jesus told them that he would be killed after suffering at the hands of religious authorities, warning them that they too should be willing to lose their lives for his sake.  Sounds like the days the Ukrainian people are experiencing.  Taking up your own cross is part of discipleship.  Crosses, suffering, death, we prefer healing, feeding thousands, and peace like the twelve experienced before them.  This mountain top that they are climbing, would it lead to suffering?  Instead, they are treated to a dazzling event that leaves them speechless.  They did not realize it at this time, but they received a sneak preview of the glory that awaited the Lord after his suffering and death.

In Luke’s Gospel, Moses and Elijah spoke to Jesus of “his exodus that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem.”  We tend to think of the flight of the “chosen people” from Egypt when we hear the word exodus, but what Jesus would accomplish in Jerusalem was a journey from spiritual captivity to freedom.  The Red Sea is now “the veil of death,” and the Promised Land becomes “eternal life.”  The good news was God’s voice from heaven saying, “This is my chosen Son; listen to him.”  Past, present, and future, all ages are called to listen to the Savior.

 

We all have or will have, crosses to bear, storms to endure, and battles to win.  Whether these are personal, nation wide, or world wide, we need the transfiguring experience of Jesus to help us through them.   As we fast, pray, and give alms this Lent, let us pause and consider the victory Christ has already won.  And hope that this will give us the courage, hope, and strength we need.

Love, Peace, Joy,

-Fr. Bob

Thursday is St. Patrick’s Day and so we pray:  God, You sent Patrick to preach the Gospel to the people of Ireland.  Through his intercession grant that we who have the honor of bearing the name of Christian may constantly proclaim your wonderful designs to all.  Amen.

Saturday is the Solemnity of St. Joseph, often celebrated with a meal and a blessing on the table.  Although the meal is generous, it is designed to feed those who are in most need.  Certainly, a Lenten observance.  St. Joseph, pray for us.

Comments

There are no comments yet - be the first one to comment: