2nd Sunday of Lent (B)

Gen 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18; Rom 8:31-34; Mk 9:2-10

The Transfiguration Event happened after Jesus had predicted his coming passion, death and resurrection.

The disciples found it very difficult to understand Jesus' prophecy: “The Son of Man must suffer much and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the teachers of the Law. He will be put to death, but three days later he will rise to life.” They got more confused because Jesus told them: “If any of you want to come with me, you must forget yourself, carry your cross, and follow me.”

The naturally outspoken Peter did not hide his disgust: “God forbid it Lord! That must never happen to you!” Surely in his heart Peter also said, “That should not happen to us either!”

Peter's reaction was so human and understandable. Who would like to think of suffering and death? Human nature would always desire comfort, security and wellbeing. People would normally run from danger and harm, from trials and difficulties. And yet, God's ways are different. “Get away from me, Satan!” Jesus said. “These thoughts of yours don't come from God, but from human nature.”

In response to the misgivings of the disciples, Jesus took Peter, James and John up to a high mountain in order to pray. There he was transfigured before them, “his clothes became shining white – whiter than anyone in the world could wash them.” The sight was simply too much to behold that it made Peter suggest without thinking: “Teacher, how good it is that we are here! We will make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” Subconsciously, Peter desired to perpetuate the glory that was unfolding right before his eyes.

The three privileged disciples watched with wonder and awe the glory that was encompassing Jesus. They began to realize that the man they were following was no ordinary teacher or prophet. The voice from the clouds convinced them: “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him!” Jesus is the Son of God whose glory they will also inherit.

“Listen to him.” We understand now that this command was given not only to the three disciples but to all who wish to follow Jesus. Heaven is waiting for us, but we can only find the way to everlasting glory if we listen to Jesus.

During the season of Lent, the Church urges us to start being more attentive to the words of Jesus and to follow his will in our lives. Abraham is our model of a good listener and follower of God's word. In the first reading, Abraham shows his willingness to do everything that God would ask him to do, even to sacrifice the life of his beloved son Isaac. Abraham remained faithful and obedient because he truly loved God and he was also convinced of God's great love for him.

While crossing the Atlantic on a ship many years ago, Bible teacher and author F. B. Mayer was asked to speak to the passengers. An agnostic listened to Meyer’s message about answered prayer and told a friend, “I didn’t believe a word of it.”

Later that same day, the agnostic went to hear Meyer speak to another group of passengers. But before he went to the meeting, he put two oranges in his pocket. On his way, he passed an elderly woman who was fast asleep in her deck chair. Her arms were outstretched and her hands were wide open, so as a joke he put the two oranges in her palms. After the meeting, he saw the woman happily eating one of the pieces of fruit.

“You seem to be enjoying that orange,” he remarked with a smile. “Yes, sir,” she replied, “My Father is very good to me.” “What do you mean?” pressed the agnostic. She explained, “I have been seasick for days. I was asking God somehow to send me an orange. I fell asleep while I was praying. When I awoke, I found He had sent me not only one but two oranges!” The agnostic was amazed by the unexpected confirmation of Meyer’s talk on answered prayer. Later, he put his trust in Christ.

(The story is From Daily Bread, The Philippine Star, April 5, 2001)