Second Sunday of Lent
Let Us See Christ As He Really Is
All the elements of a spiritual journey are found in the readings for this weekend. At St. Francis, we have begun our Lenten spiritual journey whole-heartedly, and, hopefully, we are all experiencing a bit of seeing Jesus as he really is.
As we explore the readings, we hear about Abram’s journey that takes him beyond the comfort zone of his home to a home yet unknown to him, one that he doesn’t live to see. He trusts in a promise made to him, and only his descendants experience the blessing as promised. In the reading from 2 Timothy, we hear of God giving us the strength to endure hardships, to live holy lives based on God’s design—God’s will for us—and on God’s grace, given to us in abundance. And then we experience the ultimate strategy session—Jesus meets Moses and Elijah on the mountain top. They represent the law and the prophets, and Jesus mediates both. They must all get on the same page! Jesus, the human, is transfigured, becomes the most brilliant light, and it’s like staring at the sun without sunglasses! It’s a vision of things to come—the kingdom.
James and John had accompanied Jesus to the mountain, and they heard God’s voice. “This is my Son. Listen to him!” Upon hearing this, they fell to the ground and were afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, and when they raised their eyes they saw Jesus alone. They saw Jesus as he really is. Immediately, they wanted to build tents and to stay there. But Jesus sent them forth. They had to come down the mountain and live in the kingdom!
Once we have listened and learned about Jesus, it’s our turn to tell others, to show others, and to live as Jesus lived. When we become afraid or feel alone, we remember the promise that we are never alone. When we are happy and excited, we want to praise God. In other words, we are called to be the light of Christ, to radiate and illuminate all that Jesus did on that mountain. It is clear that the work of God continues daily when we see Christ as he really is—when enemies are transformed into allies, when strangers become friends!
Transformation and conversion are everywhere! Let’s name it! How are we being changed? Where are we experiencing “transfiguration?”
P.S. There is a wonderful reflection on the Transfiguration by Diana Macalintil found on Facebook. Click here to read it.