Fr. Willy Samson, SJ
2nd Sunday of Lent
March 12, 2017
When Jesus brought Peter, James and John to Mount Tabor, one of his intentions was to give them a glimpse of His divine glory. Jesus saw the necessity of giving his disciples something to hold on – a hope in the dark, something to give them strength when darkness comes. For Jesus knew his disciples’ faith would be shattered when his crucifixion comes. The disciples needed an extra dose of encouragement – through Jesus’ transfiguration, so that their faith will not crumble in the midst of impending crucifixion.
In today’s gospel, Jesus gave his disciples a taste of their future glory. He was transfigured before their eyes in the presence of Moses and Elijah! And after that awesome sight of Jesus’ glory, God gave them an important task to do: “This is my beloved Son … LISTEN TO HIM.” (Matthew 17:5). A command intended to the disciples, but it hits our hearts. As if God is telling us too: Listen to Jesus and see your own victory.
In the Book of Genesis, when Abraham doubted God’s mysterious plan, God quickly brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them. So shall your descendants be.” (Genesis 12:2). God saw the necessity of giving Abraham a glimpse of his nation’s glory!
In our life, when pains, doubts and fears fill our hearts, when life seems falling apart, or when we are persecuted, burdened, wounded and confused, like Abraham, we need to listen to God and hear him say, “LOOK UP AT THE SKY, AND COUNT THE STARS, IF YOU CAN.” (Genesis 12:2). And like the disciples in our gospel, we need to hear Jesus telling us, “GET UP! DO NOT BE AFRAID. I am with you.” (Matthew 17:7).
Yes, we have a share of failures, frustrations and darkness in our life, but our life is also marked with countless blessings. We have a list of victories, happiness and fulfillment to share. God did not abandon us in our trials. We have glimpses of our own “little transfigurations and glory” in our families, communities and our nation. If God accompanied us in the past, we are assured of His presence today and in the future.
This Lenten Season, spend more time in prayer, listen to God, and be transformed inside. Let’s hear God’s words of assurance and healing. Look closer at your life. Count your blessings and not your miseries. Be Transformed – and rise from your challenges!
Dear God,
I come to you today,
for light, strength, and courage.
I don’t know what’s ahead of me,
but hold my hands along the way.
In silence, allow me to listen to you,
let your consoling Words fill my heart,
and wash away all my fears and pains.
Let your Words transform my heart
as I obey your mysterious will.
O Lord, I earnestly beg you,
give me a glimpse of your glory.
Transform my heart like yours,
as I relish your promises and love.
Never leave me as I face my trials,
and bless me with inner eyes to see you.
O Lord, like Peter, James and John,
bring me to my own Mount Tabor.
Let me hear your consoling Words,
as I attentively listen to your Son.
And after my communion with Jesus,
strengthen me to carry my cross with joy.
Amen.