The Sun of Righteousness
Gen 15:5-12,17-18; Phil 3:17-4:1;
Lk 9:28b-36 (Lent 2 / C)
“The Lord went before them in a
pillar of cloud to lead them along the way” (Divine Office)
On the second Sunday of Lent, we hear the story of Jesus’
Transfiguration. The Transfiguration of Jesus predicts his Paschal Mystery. Luke
describes this as his exodus, connecting Jesus’ Passion, death, and
Resurrection with Israel’s Exodus from Egypt. “His exodus that he was going to
accomplish in Jerusalem” (Lk 9:31), is the sign manifesting God’s plan, which
is carried out in the bosom of Israel's history. In the event of
transfiguration, St Luke presents Jesus’ intimate prayer life and
glorification.
It is the evangelist Luke who strongly highlights the prayer
life of Jesus. He writes, “Jesus (...) went up the mountain to pray” (Lk 9:28)
and his transfiguration happened “while he was praying” (Lk 9:29). Lent is a time for us to create a space for
prayer. Only by prayer can we be transfigured and we can transfigure our world.
By prayer can transfigure our many and often complicated relationships. Prayers
can transform the life of matrimony, our homes, work, our communities, and
consecrated life.
God is eager to share his glory with us! We get a glimpse
of this in Jesus’ transfiguration on the mountain. Jesus’ face changed in
appearance and his clothing became dazzling white (Mk 9:2,3). The Lord Jesus
not only wants us to see his glory, but he also wants us to share his glory
with us. Jesus shows us the way to the Father’s glory: follow me - obey my
words - take the path I have chosen for you, and you will receive the blessings
of my Father’s kingdom - your name will be written in heaven.
How much do we miss God’s glory and action because we are
asleep spiritually? Some things can keep our minds asleep to the things of God.
Mental lethargy and the ‘unexamined life' can keep us from thinking things
through and facing our doubts and questions. The life of ease can also hinder
us from considering, challenging, or disturbing demands of Christ. Prejudice
can blind us to something new the Lord may have for us. Even sorrow can be a
block until we can see the glory of God.
Origen (185-254 AD), an early Church Bible scholar
writes, “When we are transfigured, we will be no longer the children of
darkness or night but become the sons of day and walk honestly as in the day as
Jesus became the sun of righteousness. When it comes to obeying the
commandments or enduring adversity, the words uttered by the Father should
always echo in our ears: “This is my Son, the beloved, in whom I am well
pleased; listen to him”.
“harden not your hearts” (Divine Office)
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