Readings for March 15-16, Second Sunday of Lent
By Lyn Zahorik | For On Mission
The Transfiguration of Jesus is indeed one of the most powerful and awe-inspiring events recorded in the New Testament. The sheer glory and radiance of Jesus in His divine form must have been indescribable and beyond human comprehension.
Hearing the voice of God affirming Jesus as his beloved son provided the disciples absolute certainty of Jesus’ divine nature and mission. Isn’t this the kind of experience we long for in our own relationship with Jesus, an experience of holiness and well being that feels “simply divine?”
However, our Gospel this weekend warns us, “Be careful what you wish for.”
Peter’s immediate reaction upon seeing Jesus transfigured so overwhelmed him with the glory of the moment that in his awe and excitement, he suggested building three tents so they could continue to bask in the experience. Peter felt, “I never want this to end.”
Peter’s reaction highlights his genuine devotion to Jesus, as well as his human tendency to act quickly in the face of divine revelation. It serves as a reminder that, while we may sometimes rush to respond to spiritual experiences, the Gospel gives one line of warning, “He did not know what he was saying.”
The true essence of such moments often lies in simply being attentive and open to God’s presence and guidance. That line reminds us that, indeed, one can have too much of a good thing and get carried away with trying to stay with one moment.
This period of Lent can provide us with many opportunities for mountaintop moments to experience the mystical presence and glory of Jesus, such as participating in Mass and the sacraments, Eucharistic Adoration, meditation focusing on the presence of Jesus, contemplative practices such as Lectio Divina time and walking in nature to witness the beauty of God’s renewing creation. Lectio Divina English | Lectio Divina en Español
As spiritually uplifting as it may be for us to spend our time worshiping Jesus, he asks more of us. We cannot pursue only mountaintop moments that have us basking in Jesus’ glory.
Just as Jesus and the disciples had to descend the mountain after the Transfiguration to continue their mission, we, too, are called to translate our spiritual experiences into acts of love, service and compassion for others. The mountaintop moments strengthen us for the journey and the work ahead.
What can you do to “disciple,” or walk with, your mountaintop moments?
Consider doing small acts of kindness. Sometimes even a simple smile and acknowledgement of another can make their day. Make time to generously serve others, whether it’s through community service or church activities.
During this season of reconciliation, practice forgiveness and extend grace to those who have wronged you. Strive to live a life of honesty, integrity and moral courage. Perhaps, most importantly, recognize the divine moments in your life, both big and small, and give thanks for them.
By embracing these practices of prayer and service, we can open ourselves to the profound and transformative experience of Jesus’ divinity, which can make our whole life one filled with a sense of wonder and spiritual depth.
Zahorik is director for spiritual engagement at St. Mary Parish, Omro, and St. Mary Parish, Winneconne.
The readings for Sunday, March 16, can be found at Second Sunday of Lent | USCCB