Word to the Wise
Sunday, February 21, 2016 - 2nd Sunday of Lent - C
[Gen 15:5-12, 17-18; Phil 3:17-4:1 or 3:20-4:1; Luke 9:28b-36]SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2016, SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT [Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18; Philippians 3:17 - 4:1 and Luke 9:28b-36] "This is my chosen Son; listen to him." [Luke] These words come from a cloud after the experience of seeing Jesus transfigured and in conversation with Moses and Elijah! They form the theme of a parish mission that I am beginning in the south Texas town of Goliad this weekend. The gospel reports similar words at Jesus' baptism. We hear them from the pages of the gospel. Are we listening? Abraham, in the first scripture for today, puts his faith in God who makes promises. What Jesus promises are a cross and resurrection. The Transfiguration is reported around the time that Jesus predicts his death and resurrection. Both the experience on the mountain and the predictions leave the disciples mystified. Their commitment is strong but not complete. It will take the coming of the Holy Spirit to really solidify that commitment. With these scriptures in mind, perhaps we can ask about our own commitment to Christ. Lent leads us toward Holy Week when we will see Jesus' predictions come to pass, and toward Pentecost when we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit. How solid is our commitment to proclaiming the gospel? If we listen to the Chosen Son, do we remember what he has told us? The Transfiguration is a reminder of what he can do for us and who he really is. AMEN