Second Sunday of Lent - A Reflection by Fr. Leo

Each year on this Second Sunday of Lent, we as a Church, celebrate the account of Jesus’ transfiguration.  The story captures a glimpse of Jesus glory.  A speechless experience for the disciples to strengthen their faith for the journey ahead.

Jesus took his disciples up the mountain to pray, a place that was understood to be close to God.  While there, Jesus’ face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white. Jesus was one with God in prayer and God’s energy shown through him.  The disciples didn’t know what to think and Peter babbles on until the Father’s voice is heard through a cloud, proclaiming once again that Jesus is his beloved son and they should listen to him.

Just as this experience foreshadowed the glory of the Risen Christ, it is also meant to foreshadow our own future when we listen and follow the inner voice of Christ.  The mountain is where we are called to go to commune with God and discover his love within us.  This experience strengthens us to come back down the mountain to live God’s love in the ups and downs of life. 

For us to find our way and fulfill our mission we need to climb the mountain from time to time, but then too we need to live the love we uncover within, in the day to day challenges of life.  There must always be a balance.  All good works without prayer does not nurture our spiritual growth and all prayer with no action doesn’t allow God’s love to be realized in building the Kingdom of God here and now.

What is our personal balance between prayer and action?  What love do we feel in our hearts for all, and how do we make our love real for all?