“From the shining cloud the Father’s voice is heard: This is my beloved Son, listen to Him.” Matthew 17:5
Today’s Gospel reading is a comfort to contemplate… The Son of God transfigured in all His glory, His divinity revealed as a sign of the eternal glory each of us is destined to enjoy.
Here we are in the second week of Lent, anxious to show God that our good works and our sacrifices are all offered with the intention of drawing closer in worthiness to the gift of salvation. We see that the transfiguration of the Lord is a glimpse into our future, too. Matthew’s recounting assures us that we can be transformed in God’s image as well and become worthy of eternal life.
Transformation may sound like a tall order right now. Everyday life still poses its challenges—for all of us. But let’s remember that God loves and accepts us as we are, especially because our goal during Lent is to always offer up a little more and find new ways to give praise.
While we still have the spiritual energy, let’s promise ourselves that we will keep the momentum going. One way to do that is by trying to discern the gifts that God is trying to reveal in us. Is it a special kinship with children or the elderly? Do you have a unique talent that you could share—or share more of? Is there a prayer group that could enrich your Lenten practice—and convince someone else to do the same?
Friend, it’s only the second full week of Lent, I know. But with the example of today’s Gospel, it’s a perfect time to look inward and see how you might be transformed in God’s image. The one promise I can make is that when you welcome God with the intention of being renewed, you’re not the only one who will experience a change. Your example will have the power to transform someone else’s life, too. Maybe more than one life. Maybe many lives. Lent is a time when we can set new goals and find out. May your journey this week transform you in God’s love.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Father Raymond J. Finch, M.M.
February 28, 2021
Second Sunday of Lent
Lord Jesus Christ, on Tabor’s height
You were transformed in majesty
that Your disciples might not only
experience Your glory but also find
the strength and grace to be
transformed anew into the divine
image and likeness in which
we were all created by God.
Help us climb the holy mountain
where we too might offer our prayers
and sacrifices, our pain and broken promises
that these too might be transformed into
fountains of faith, hope, healing and love
for ourselves and all the people
through whom you have blessed us.
Be with us, Lord Jesus, as we, like you
descend from our holy mountaintop
to face our own, personal way of the cross.
May each step bring us ever closer to you
by drawing us closer to all who suffer
poverty, hunger, injustice or illness
that the power of your Cross and Resurrection
might continue to transform our broken world.
Amen
Prayer by Maryknoll Missioner, Father Joseph Veneroso
