SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT, YEAR A.
5th March 2023
Genesis 12:1-4; 2 Timothy 1:8-10; Matthew 17:1-9.
The story of the transfiguration of Jesus reminds us of the need to make necessary changes to our lifestyle. It is a call to move away from our comfort zones which pose as obstacle to spiritual growth. According to the gospel, Jesus took his close associates, Peter, James and John to a high mountain and in their presence he was transfigured. His face shone like the sun and his clothes became as white as the light. Moses and Elijah appeared and were talking with Jesus. Jesus had to take them away from their familiar pastoral environment for them to encounter the glory of God. This experience increased their faith in God and strengthen their commitment to the mission of Jesus.
The problem with leaving our comfort zones is the fear of losing our carefully acquired lifestyle! Sometimes we are aware that a particular lifestyle is an obstacle to spiritual growth, but we do not have the moral strength to make the necessary change. In the first reading, God told Abram to leave his country, family and father’s house to an unknown destination. God deliberately detached him from his comfort zone in order to give him a new beginning that made him great. We can say that Abram’s faith enabled him to heed to God’s command. We cannot tell what is on the other side until we move closer to it.
The voice that came from the clouds during the transfiguration is a reminder that it is God’s invitation. He invites us to have a taste of something better. Rather than dwell in a lifestyle that hinders growth and makes it difficult to make the necessary changes in our lives, let listen to God’s voice this day and find hope and courage. St Paul advised Timothy in the second reading to rely on the power of God who has saved us and called us to be holy. Lent is a season to fight addictions and make changes. Only those who are willing to go up the mountain of transfiguration will see the vision of God’s glory that awaits us.
Fr Anthony Ekpunobi, CM.
