On the Second Sunday of Lent, we always hear the story of the Transfiguration of Jesus, this year from the Gospel of Matthew, Mt 17:1-9. Jesus is transfigured, that is to say, Peter, James, and John see him in all his splendor in his divine form. These same three were with Jesus the night before he died in the garden of Gethsemane. They saw his agony and his glory.
Jesus is both human and divine. Moses and Elijah appear. Moses and Elijah both fasted for 40 days and then went up a mountain to meet God. Last week we heard about Jesus in the desert in prayer and fasting for 40 days. Today, on a mountain, Jesus is seen in his divine appearance, and a voice comes from the cloud, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” Mt 17:5. We are reminded of Jesus’ baptism at the beginning of his public ministry.
Moses represents the law, and Elijah represents the prophets. This story tells us that Jesus came to fulfill everything found in the law and in the prophets, he is the fulfillment of the covenant. How is your life impacted by Jesus as Messiah and Savior?
In the Second Reading, 2 Tm 1:8b-10, Timothy says, Jesus “saved us and called us to a holy life.” How are we preparing this Lent to renew our baptismal call to holiness at Easter?
Consider some of the phrases used in today’s prayers.
From the Collect (Opening Prayer): May we be nourished by your word. May our spiritual sight be made pure. May we behold your glory.
From the Preface: Through his transfiguration, Jesus manifested his glory. He showed his apostles that his Passion would lead to the glory of the Resurrection.
From the Prayer Over the People: May we be faithful to the Gospel. May we desire and attain glory through our faithfulness.
