Second Sunday of Lent
Lectionary: 27
Lectionary: 27
The Lord God took Abram outside and said,
"Look up at the sky and count the stars, if you can.
Just so," he added, "shall your descendants be."
Abram put his faith in the LORD,
who credited it to him as an act of righteousness.
He then said to him,
"I am the LORD who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans
to give you this land as a possession."
"O Lord GOD," he asked,
"how am I to know that I shall possess it?"
He answered him,
"Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old she-goat,
a three-year-old ram, a turtledove, and a young pigeon."
Abram brought him all these, split them in two,
and placed each half opposite the other;
but the birds he did not cut up.
Birds of prey swooped down on the carcasses,
but Abram stayed with them.
As the sun was about to set, a trance fell upon Abram,
and a deep, terrifying darkness enveloped him.
When the sun had set and it was dark,
there appeared a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch,
which passed between those pieces.
It was on that occasion that the LORD made a covenant with Abram,
saying: "To your descendants I give this land,
from the Wadi of Egypt to the Great River, the Euphrates."
"Look up at the sky and count the stars, if you can.
Just so," he added, "shall your descendants be."
Abram put his faith in the LORD,
who credited it to him as an act of righteousness.
He then said to him,
"I am the LORD who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans
to give you this land as a possession."
"O Lord GOD," he asked,
"how am I to know that I shall possess it?"
He answered him,
"Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old she-goat,
a three-year-old ram, a turtledove, and a young pigeon."
Abram brought him all these, split them in two,
and placed each half opposite the other;
but the birds he did not cut up.
Birds of prey swooped down on the carcasses,
but Abram stayed with them.
As the sun was about to set, a trance fell upon Abram,
and a deep, terrifying darkness enveloped him.
When the sun had set and it was dark,
there appeared a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch,
which passed between those pieces.
It was on that occasion that the LORD made a covenant with Abram,
saying: "To your descendants I give this land,
from the Wadi of Egypt to the Great River, the Euphrates."
Responsorial
PsalmPS 27:1, 7-8, 8-9, 13-14.
R. (1a) The
Lord is my light and my salvation.
The LORD is my light and my salvation;
whom should I fear?
The LORD is my life's refuge;
of whom should I be afraid?
R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Hear, O LORD, the sound of my call;
have pity on me, and answer me.
Of you my heart speaks; you my glance seeks.
R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Your presence, O LORD, I seek.
Hide not your face from me;
do not in anger repel your servant.
You are my helper: cast me not off.
R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
I believe that I shall see the bounty of the LORD
in the land of the living.
Wait for the LORD with courage;
be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD.
R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
The LORD is my light and my salvation;
whom should I fear?
The LORD is my life's refuge;
of whom should I be afraid?
R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Hear, O LORD, the sound of my call;
have pity on me, and answer me.
Of you my heart speaks; you my glance seeks.
R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Your presence, O LORD, I seek.
Hide not your face from me;
do not in anger repel your servant.
You are my helper: cast me not off.
R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
I believe that I shall see the bounty of the LORD
in the land of the living.
Wait for the LORD with courage;
be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD.
R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Reading 2 PHIL 3:17—4:1
Join with others in being imitators of me, brothers and sisters,
and observe those who thus conduct themselves
according to the model you have in us.
For many, as I have often told you
and now tell you even in tears,
conduct themselves as enemies of the cross of Christ.
Their end is destruction.
Their God is their stomach;
their glory is in their "shame."
Their minds are occupied with earthly things.
But our citizenship is in heaven,
and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
He will change our lowly body
to conform with his glorified body
by the power that enables him also
to bring all things into subjection to himself.
Therefore, my brothers and sisters,
whom I love and long for, my joy and crown,
in this way stand firm in the Lord.
and observe those who thus conduct themselves
according to the model you have in us.
For many, as I have often told you
and now tell you even in tears,
conduct themselves as enemies of the cross of Christ.
Their end is destruction.
Their God is their stomach;
their glory is in their "shame."
Their minds are occupied with earthly things.
But our citizenship is in heaven,
and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
He will change our lowly body
to conform with his glorified body
by the power that enables him also
to bring all things into subjection to himself.
Therefore, my brothers and sisters,
whom I love and long for, my joy and crown,
in this way stand firm in the Lord.
Brothers and sisters:
Our citizenship is in heaven,
and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
He will change our lowly body
to conform with his glorified body
by the power that enables him also
to bring all things into subjection to himself.
Therefore, my brothers and sisters,
whom I love and long for, my joy and crown,
in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved.
Our citizenship is in heaven,
and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
He will change our lowly body
to conform with his glorified body
by the power that enables him also
to bring all things into subjection to himself.
Therefore, my brothers and sisters,
whom I love and long for, my joy and crown,
in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved.
Verse Before
The GospelCF. MT 17:5
From the shining cloud the Father's voice is heard:
This is my beloved Son, hear him.
This is my beloved Son, hear him.
GospelLK 9:28B-36
Jesus took Peter, John, and James
and went up the mountain to pray.
While he was praying his face changed in appearance
and his clothing became dazzling white.
And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah,
who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus
that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem.
Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep,
but becoming fully awake,
they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.
As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus,
"Master, it is good that we are here;
let us make three tents,
one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah."
But he did not know what he was saying.
While he was still speaking,
a cloud came and cast a shadow over them,
and they became frightened when they entered the cloud.
Then from the cloud came a voice that said,
"This is my chosen Son; listen to him."
After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone.
They fell silent and did not at that time
tell anyone what they had seen.
and went up the mountain to pray.
While he was praying his face changed in appearance
and his clothing became dazzling white.
And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah,
who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus
that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem.
Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep,
but becoming fully awake,
they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.
As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus,
"Master, it is good that we are here;
let us make three tents,
one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah."
But he did not know what he was saying.
While he was still speaking,
a cloud came and cast a shadow over them,
and they became frightened when they entered the cloud.
Then from the cloud came a voice that said,
"This is my chosen Son; listen to him."
After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone.
They fell silent and did not at that time
tell anyone what they had seen.
Meditation:
Jesus transfigured in glory
What
can blind us or keep us from recognizing God's glory in our lives? Sin and
unbelief for sure! Faith enables us to see what is hidden or unseen to the
naked eye. Through the eyes of faith Abraham recognized God and God's call on
his life. He saw from afar not only what God intended for him, but for his
descendants as well - an everlasting covenant of friendship and peace with the
living God (Genesis 15:18). Abraham is the father of faith because he put his
hope in the promises of God. Faith makes us taste in advance the light of God's
glory when we shall see him face to face (1 Corinthians 13:12; 1 John 3:2).
The
Lord Jesus reveals his glory in fulfilling his Father's will
Are you prepared to see God's glory? God is eager to share his glory with us! We get a glimpse of this when the disciples see Jesus transfigured on the mountain. Jesus' face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white (Mark 9:2,3).
Are you prepared to see God's glory? God is eager to share his glory with us! We get a glimpse of this when the disciples see Jesus transfigured on the mountain. Jesus' face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white (Mark 9:2,3).
When
Moses met with God on Mount Sinai the skin of his face shone because he
had been talking with God (see Exodus 34:29). Paul says that the
Israelites could not look at Moses' face because of its brightness (2
Corinthians 3:7). In the Gospel account Jesus appeared in glory with Moses, the
great lawgiver of Israel, and with Elijah, the greatest of the prophets, in the
presence of three of his beloved apostles - Peter, James, and John.
What
is the significance of this mysterious appearance? Jesus went to the mountain
knowing full well what awaited him in Jerusalem - his betrayal, rejection and
crucifixion. Jesus very likely discussed this momentous decision to go to the
cross with Moses and Elijah. God the Father also spoke with Jesus and gave his
approval: This is my beloved Son; listen to him. The Father
glorified his son because he obeyed. The cloud which overshadowed Jesus and his
apostles fulfilled the dream of the Jews that when the Messiah came the cloud
of God's presence would fill the temple again (see Exodus 16:10, 19:9,
33:9; 1 Kings 8:10; 2 Maccabees 2:8).
The
Lord wants to share his glory with each of us
The Lord Jesus not only wants us to see his glory - he wants to share this glory with us. And 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.
The Lord Jesus not only wants us to see his glory - he wants to share this glory with us. And 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.
Jesus
succeeded in his mission because he went to Calvary so that Paradise would be
restored to us once again. He embraced the cross to obtain the crown of glory
that awaits each one of us, if we will follow in his footsteps.
Origen
(185-254 AD), an early church bible scholar and writer, shows us how the
transfiguration can change our lives:
"When
he is transfigured, his face also shines as the sun that he may be manifested
to the children of light who have put off the works of darkness and put on the
armor of light, and are no longer the children of darkness or night but have
become the sons of day, and walk honestly as in the day. Being manifest, he
will shine unto them not simply as the sun, but as demonstrated to be the sun
of righteousness."
Stay
awake spiritually - Don't miss God's glory and action
Luke's Gospel account tells us that while Jesus was transfigured, Peter, James, and John were asleep (Luke 9:32)! Upon awakening they discovered Jesus in glory along with Moses and Elijah. How much do we miss of God's glory and action because we are asleep spiritually? There are many things which 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 the challenging or disturbing demands of Christ. Prejudice can make us blind to something new the Lord may have for us. Even sorrow can be a block until we can see past it to the glory of God.
Luke's Gospel account tells us that while Jesus was transfigured, Peter, James, and John were asleep (Luke 9:32)! Upon awakening they discovered Jesus in glory along with Moses and Elijah. How much do we miss of God's glory and action because we are asleep spiritually? There are many things which 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 the challenging or disturbing demands of Christ. Prejudice can make us blind to something new the Lord may have for us. Even sorrow can be a block until we can see past it to the glory of God.
Are
you spiritually awake? Peter, James, and John were privileged witnesses of the
glory of Christ. We, too, as disciples of Christ are called to be witnesses of
his glory. We all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord,
are being changed into his likeness from one degree of glory to another; for
this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18). The
Lord wants to reveal his glory to us, his beloved disciples. Do you seek his
presence with faith and reverence?
"Lord
Jesus, keep me always alert to you, to your presence in my life, and to your
life-giving word that nourishes me daily. Let me see your glory."
Daily
Quote from the early church fathers: The transfiguration of Jesus, by
Jerome (347-420 AD)
"Do
you wish to see the transfiguration of Jesus? Behold with me the Jesus of the
Gospels. Let him be simply apprehended. There he is beheld both 'according to
the flesh' and at the same time in his true divinity. He is beheld in the form
of God according to our capacity for knowledge. This is how he was beheld by
those who went up upon the lofty mountain to be apart with him. Meanwhile those
who do not go up the mountain can still behold his works and hear his words,
which are uplifting. It is before those who go up that Jesus is transfigured,
and not to those below. When he is transfigured, his face shines as the sun,
that he may be manifested to the children of light, who have put off the works
of darkness and put on the armor of light (Romans 13:12). They are no
longer the children of darkness or night but have become the children of day.
They walk honestly as in the day. Being manifested, he will shine to them not
simply as the sun but as he is demonstrated to be, the sun of
righteousness." (excerpt from COMMENTARY ON MATTHEW 12.37.10)
2nd Sunday of Lent – Cycle C
Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended that the reader look up and read that passage.
1st Reading - Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18
In today’s first reading we hear of God’s first covenant with Abram. In Genesis 12:1-2, God had made a three-fold promise of blessing to Abram: nationhood, dynasty (name), and worldwide blessing. These promises were then secured by covenants.
Abram was called at the age of 75 when the Lord told him “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you” (Genesis 12:1). Abram obediently set out with Sari his wife, Lot his nephew, and all the possessions and servants (slaves) they had acquired and went to Canaan. Canaan was occupied by the descendants of Canaan the son of Ham (who was one of the three sons of Noah) and brother of Cush, Egypt, and Put. Canaan was cursed by Noah because of his (Canaan’s) father’s actions when he discovered Noah drunk in his tent (Genesis 9:25). Because of the curse, the Canaanites were thought to be subject people of the Semites (descendants of Shem, the firstborn of the three sons of Noah). After living in Canaan, Abram fled to Egypt to escape the famine in Canaan. While in Egypt Abram passed Sari off as his sister and she was incorporated into Pharaoh’s harem. Because of this, God inflicted serious diseases upon Pharaoh and his household. Pharaoh then learned of the deception and expelled Abram and Sari and all their possessions.
Abram and Lot then separated and Lot went to live near Sodom while Abram returned to Canaan. Four kings defeated five kings (an indication of their power) and took Lot prisoner. Upon hearing of Lot’s capture, Abram took his 318 trained men and defeated the four kings who had defeated the five kings.
When he returned, he was blessed by Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. Hebrew tradition has it that Melchizedek was Shem. If this was the case, the blessing was the blessing of the firstborn son of Noah; the same blessing which was later fought over by Esau and Jacob.
This brings us up to the time of our reading today, some 10-11 years after Abram started on his journey. Abram (the name means “father who is exalted”) and Sari remain childless although God had promised him the first time he arrived in Canaan that He would give the land to his offspring. Abram has despaired to God that he has no offspring and that his servant will inherit his estate. God now makes His promise into a covenant.
5 He took him outside and said: “Look up at the sky and count the stars, if you can.
Just so,” he added, “shall your descendants be.”
Abram will have descendants too numerous to count.
6 Abram put his faith in the LORD,
Accepted God’s plan with assurance – even though realization of it seems unlikely. After all, Abram is 85-86 years old and Sari herself is no spring chicken.
who credited it to him as an act of righteousness.
Many fundamentalists point to this as proof of justification by faith, not works. Abram’s actions 10-11 years earlier shows obedience (works) long before any declaration of faith. Justification is not a legal declaration, but sonship. The justified must live the obedient life of a son.
7 He then said to him, “I am the LORD who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land as a possession.”
This is the same formula is used in Exodus 20:2; Deuteronomy 5:6; Leviticus 25:38, where it refers to the bringing out of Egypt. God did the bringing, Abram acted in obedience.
8 “O Lord GOD,” he asked, “How am I to know that I shall possess it?” 9 He answered him, “Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old she-goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtle-dove, and a young pigeon.” 10 He brought him all these, split them in two, and placed each half opposite the other; but the birds he did not cut up.
From Jeremiah 34:18, we know that the covenanting parties passed between the parts, showing their willingness to share the fate of the animals should they disobey the terms of the covenant.
11 Birds of prey swooped down on the carcasses, but Abram stayed with them.
Symbols of the dangers that will threaten the covenant. Abram defends the covenant by chasing them away.
12 As the sun was about to set, a trance fell upon Abram, and a deep, terrifying darkness enveloped him.
A sign of divine intervention. Adam was also in a deep sleep when Eve was created (Genesis2:21).
17 When the sun had set and it was dark, there appeared a smoking brazier and a flaming torch,
God’s divine presence. Recall that God appeared to Moses as a flame at the burning bush; to the Jews during the exodus as a pillar of smoke by day and a pillar of fire by night.
which passed between those pieces.
The ritual act of swearing the covenant. God takes the part of both parties signifying that man is not strong enough to hold up his end of the covenant without divine help.
18 It was on that occasion that the LORD made a covenant with Abram,
A family bond. Not a promise or contract, something much more important and binding. Cannot be canceled or annulled.
saying: “To your descendants I give this land,
Assures later Israel of the possession of the land. The Israelites cannot be a nation if they do not possess the land. This secures the first promise to Abram in Genesis 12:2. This covenant was fulfilled in Moses who brought the twelve tribes to the promised land.
from the Wadi of Egypt to the Great River (the Euphrates).”
The borders were traditional in Solomon’s time (1 Kings 4:21). Israel today bases their claim on this passage showing right to title.
2nd Reading - Philippians 3:17-4:1
Our epistle reading today comes from Paul’s warning against false teachers. The adversaries would seem to be Judaizers – itinerant preachers, who in the name of a higher perfection seek to impose upon Gentile converts the Levitical practices which were outdated (abrogated) by the new covenant; the covenant by which we were made children of God and were no longer His slaves.
3:17 Join with others in being imitators of me, brothers [and sisters],
Paul doesn’t hesitate to propose himself for imitation since he himself is an imitator of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).
and observe those who thus conduct themselves according to the model you have in us.
Stick to the teachings of the Church and follow those who adhere to them. Do not look for easier and/or what appears to be more realistic teachings.
18 For many, as I have often told you and now tell you even in tears, conduct themselves as enemies of the cross of Christ.
When the false teachers teach something different than the Church, they deny the efficacy of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. If it were not for the sacrifice there would be no new covenant nor would there be the family meal to eat which makes us a party to the covenant and a member of God’s family.
19 Their end is destruction.
When the end times come, these people will be ruined; cast forever from heaven.
Their God is their stomach;
This is either a reference to Jewish dietary laws or a concern for keeping themselves well fed. Recall that when Jesus sent out the 70 (some translations say 72) they were to take nothing with them as they traveled but were to depend daily upon those to whom they ministered.
their glory is in their “shame.”
To boast of circumcision is to glory in something which one otherwise modestly covers.
Their minds are occupied with earthly things.
All the Levitical rules belonging to the old covenant are now superseded by Christ. To adopt Jewish practices is not outright paganism but regard for such practices would be the equivalent of a reversion to reverence for the elemental spirits.
20 But our citizenship is in heaven,
We are sons of God, co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17).
and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
The parousia (Acts 1:11; 3:21).
21 He will change our lowly body to conform with his glorified body
The bodies of Christians, now partaking in the morality of present life cannot enter the final glory without transformation (see 1 Corinthians 15:50). The risen Christ is the example as well as the agent of the true humanity God intended for human beings from the start (Romans 8:19-21).
“When we rise and are changed and are made spiritual in soul, body and spirit (for all these three make up one man and are one spirit), the body in which we have been humbled will be raised. It will be of the same and equal form to the body of Christ’s own glory. So too we shall be spirits as he himself is a spirit.” [Marius Victorinus (ca. A.D. 355), Epistle to the Philippians 3,21]
by the power that enables him also to bring all things into subjection to himself.
See Psalm 8:6 (8:7 in The New American Bible) the messianic reign of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:25-28).
4:1 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved.
Do not be seduced away from the new existence now enjoyed “in the Lord.”
Gospel - Luke 9:28b-36
The story we hear today we will hear again on August 6th, the Transfiguration of Christ. The time is about one year prior to Jesus’ death and resurrection. He has fed the five thousand, fed the four thousand, walked on water, delivered His bread of life discourse, and Peter has made his revelation at Caesarea Philippi “You are the Christ.” Jesus has just bestowed upon Peter the name of Rock (kepha), promised to build His church upon this rock, and given Peter the ability to bind and loose. About eight days after this, today’s reading occurs.
28b [Jesus] took Peter, John, and James
The inner circle of disciples. Peter is always listed first, showing primacy.
and went up the mountain to pray.
This account is structured to show a parallel with Moses who went up Mount Sinai to talk with God (burning bush) and to receive the ten commandments. Why did He take the three disciples with Him? A life and death moment requires two or three witnesses (Deuteronomy 17:6).
29 While he was praying
Often in Luke Jesus is portrayed at prayer before an important decision: election of the twelve (6:12); Peter’s revelation (9:18); instruction on prayer (11:1), the agony in the garden (22:41); and on the cross (23:46).
his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white.
The various translations of the Bible give an interesting description: “white and glistening” (King James Version); “bright as a flash of lightening” (New International Version); “sparkling white” (New Jerusalem Bible). See also Mark 9:3.
30 And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah,
Two witnesses from the old covenant: Moses represents the Law and Elijah represents the prophets. The Old Testament scriptures are fully represented. Elijah is to herald the coming of the Messiah [Malachi 4:5 (3:23 in The New American Bible and New Jerusalem Bible)].
31 who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem.
Saint Luke is the only one of the Gospel writers to tell us what Jesus, Moses and Elijah were discussing – Jesus’ mission to go to Jerusalem and be crucified, then spend 40 days on earth before ascending.
32 Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep,
Moses and Elijah had come to speak to Jesus only.
but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. 33 As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
Peter is not anxious for this to end. A reference to the feast of tabernacles (see Zechariah 14:16).
But he did not know what he was saying. 34 While he was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud.
The cloud is a symbol of God’s presence.
35 Then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my chosen Son; listen to him.”
This is the central point of this reading. Moses and Elijah (representatives of the old covenant) have left and Jesus remains to institute the new covenant. Just like Mary said at the wedding feast at Cana, “Do whatever He tells you.” See also Hebrews 1:1-2.
36 After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. They fell silent and did not at that time tell anyone what they had seen.
Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended that the reader look up and read that passage.
1st Reading - Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18
In today’s first reading we hear of God’s first covenant with Abram. In Genesis 12:1-2, God had made a three-fold promise of blessing to Abram: nationhood, dynasty (name), and worldwide blessing. These promises were then secured by covenants.
Abram was called at the age of 75 when the Lord told him “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you” (Genesis 12:1). Abram obediently set out with Sari his wife, Lot his nephew, and all the possessions and servants (slaves) they had acquired and went to Canaan. Canaan was occupied by the descendants of Canaan the son of Ham (who was one of the three sons of Noah) and brother of Cush, Egypt, and Put. Canaan was cursed by Noah because of his (Canaan’s) father’s actions when he discovered Noah drunk in his tent (Genesis 9:25). Because of the curse, the Canaanites were thought to be subject people of the Semites (descendants of Shem, the firstborn of the three sons of Noah). After living in Canaan, Abram fled to Egypt to escape the famine in Canaan. While in Egypt Abram passed Sari off as his sister and she was incorporated into Pharaoh’s harem. Because of this, God inflicted serious diseases upon Pharaoh and his household. Pharaoh then learned of the deception and expelled Abram and Sari and all their possessions.
Abram and Lot then separated and Lot went to live near Sodom while Abram returned to Canaan. Four kings defeated five kings (an indication of their power) and took Lot prisoner. Upon hearing of Lot’s capture, Abram took his 318 trained men and defeated the four kings who had defeated the five kings.
When he returned, he was blessed by Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. Hebrew tradition has it that Melchizedek was Shem. If this was the case, the blessing was the blessing of the firstborn son of Noah; the same blessing which was later fought over by Esau and Jacob.
This brings us up to the time of our reading today, some 10-11 years after Abram started on his journey. Abram (the name means “father who is exalted”) and Sari remain childless although God had promised him the first time he arrived in Canaan that He would give the land to his offspring. Abram has despaired to God that he has no offspring and that his servant will inherit his estate. God now makes His promise into a covenant.
5 He took him outside and said: “Look up at the sky and count the stars, if you can.
Just so,” he added, “shall your descendants be.”
Abram will have descendants too numerous to count.
6 Abram put his faith in the LORD,
Accepted God’s plan with assurance – even though realization of it seems unlikely. After all, Abram is 85-86 years old and Sari herself is no spring chicken.
who credited it to him as an act of righteousness.
Many fundamentalists point to this as proof of justification by faith, not works. Abram’s actions 10-11 years earlier shows obedience (works) long before any declaration of faith. Justification is not a legal declaration, but sonship. The justified must live the obedient life of a son.
7 He then said to him, “I am the LORD who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land as a possession.”
This is the same formula is used in Exodus 20:2; Deuteronomy 5:6; Leviticus 25:38, where it refers to the bringing out of Egypt. God did the bringing, Abram acted in obedience.
8 “O Lord GOD,” he asked, “How am I to know that I shall possess it?” 9 He answered him, “Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old she-goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtle-dove, and a young pigeon.” 10 He brought him all these, split them in two, and placed each half opposite the other; but the birds he did not cut up.
From Jeremiah 34:18, we know that the covenanting parties passed between the parts, showing their willingness to share the fate of the animals should they disobey the terms of the covenant.
11 Birds of prey swooped down on the carcasses, but Abram stayed with them.
Symbols of the dangers that will threaten the covenant. Abram defends the covenant by chasing them away.
12 As the sun was about to set, a trance fell upon Abram, and a deep, terrifying darkness enveloped him.
A sign of divine intervention. Adam was also in a deep sleep when Eve was created (Genesis2:21).
17 When the sun had set and it was dark, there appeared a smoking brazier and a flaming torch,
God’s divine presence. Recall that God appeared to Moses as a flame at the burning bush; to the Jews during the exodus as a pillar of smoke by day and a pillar of fire by night.
which passed between those pieces.
The ritual act of swearing the covenant. God takes the part of both parties signifying that man is not strong enough to hold up his end of the covenant without divine help.
18 It was on that occasion that the LORD made a covenant with Abram,
A family bond. Not a promise or contract, something much more important and binding. Cannot be canceled or annulled.
saying: “To your descendants I give this land,
Assures later Israel of the possession of the land. The Israelites cannot be a nation if they do not possess the land. This secures the first promise to Abram in Genesis 12:2. This covenant was fulfilled in Moses who brought the twelve tribes to the promised land.
from the Wadi of Egypt to the Great River (the Euphrates).”
The borders were traditional in Solomon’s time (1 Kings 4:21). Israel today bases their claim on this passage showing right to title.
2nd Reading - Philippians 3:17-4:1
Our epistle reading today comes from Paul’s warning against false teachers. The adversaries would seem to be Judaizers – itinerant preachers, who in the name of a higher perfection seek to impose upon Gentile converts the Levitical practices which were outdated (abrogated) by the new covenant; the covenant by which we were made children of God and were no longer His slaves.
3:17 Join with others in being imitators of me, brothers [and sisters],
Paul doesn’t hesitate to propose himself for imitation since he himself is an imitator of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).
and observe those who thus conduct themselves according to the model you have in us.
Stick to the teachings of the Church and follow those who adhere to them. Do not look for easier and/or what appears to be more realistic teachings.
18 For many, as I have often told you and now tell you even in tears, conduct themselves as enemies of the cross of Christ.
When the false teachers teach something different than the Church, they deny the efficacy of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. If it were not for the sacrifice there would be no new covenant nor would there be the family meal to eat which makes us a party to the covenant and a member of God’s family.
19 Their end is destruction.
When the end times come, these people will be ruined; cast forever from heaven.
Their God is their stomach;
This is either a reference to Jewish dietary laws or a concern for keeping themselves well fed. Recall that when Jesus sent out the 70 (some translations say 72) they were to take nothing with them as they traveled but were to depend daily upon those to whom they ministered.
their glory is in their “shame.”
To boast of circumcision is to glory in something which one otherwise modestly covers.
Their minds are occupied with earthly things.
All the Levitical rules belonging to the old covenant are now superseded by Christ. To adopt Jewish practices is not outright paganism but regard for such practices would be the equivalent of a reversion to reverence for the elemental spirits.
20 But our citizenship is in heaven,
We are sons of God, co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17).
and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
The parousia (Acts 1:11; 3:21).
21 He will change our lowly body to conform with his glorified body
The bodies of Christians, now partaking in the morality of present life cannot enter the final glory without transformation (see 1 Corinthians 15:50). The risen Christ is the example as well as the agent of the true humanity God intended for human beings from the start (Romans 8:19-21).
“When we rise and are changed and are made spiritual in soul, body and spirit (for all these three make up one man and are one spirit), the body in which we have been humbled will be raised. It will be of the same and equal form to the body of Christ’s own glory. So too we shall be spirits as he himself is a spirit.” [Marius Victorinus (ca. A.D. 355), Epistle to the Philippians 3,21]
by the power that enables him also to bring all things into subjection to himself.
See Psalm 8:6 (8:7 in The New American Bible) the messianic reign of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:25-28).
4:1 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved.
Do not be seduced away from the new existence now enjoyed “in the Lord.”
Gospel - Luke 9:28b-36
The story we hear today we will hear again on August 6th, the Transfiguration of Christ. The time is about one year prior to Jesus’ death and resurrection. He has fed the five thousand, fed the four thousand, walked on water, delivered His bread of life discourse, and Peter has made his revelation at Caesarea Philippi “You are the Christ.” Jesus has just bestowed upon Peter the name of Rock (kepha), promised to build His church upon this rock, and given Peter the ability to bind and loose. About eight days after this, today’s reading occurs.
28b [Jesus] took Peter, John, and James
The inner circle of disciples. Peter is always listed first, showing primacy.
and went up the mountain to pray.
This account is structured to show a parallel with Moses who went up Mount Sinai to talk with God (burning bush) and to receive the ten commandments. Why did He take the three disciples with Him? A life and death moment requires two or three witnesses (Deuteronomy 17:6).
29 While he was praying
Often in Luke Jesus is portrayed at prayer before an important decision: election of the twelve (6:12); Peter’s revelation (9:18); instruction on prayer (11:1), the agony in the garden (22:41); and on the cross (23:46).
his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white.
The various translations of the Bible give an interesting description: “white and glistening” (King James Version); “bright as a flash of lightening” (New International Version); “sparkling white” (New Jerusalem Bible). See also Mark 9:3.
30 And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah,
Two witnesses from the old covenant: Moses represents the Law and Elijah represents the prophets. The Old Testament scriptures are fully represented. Elijah is to herald the coming of the Messiah [Malachi 4:5 (3:23 in The New American Bible and New Jerusalem Bible)].
31 who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem.
Saint Luke is the only one of the Gospel writers to tell us what Jesus, Moses and Elijah were discussing – Jesus’ mission to go to Jerusalem and be crucified, then spend 40 days on earth before ascending.
32 Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep,
Moses and Elijah had come to speak to Jesus only.
but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. 33 As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
Peter is not anxious for this to end. A reference to the feast of tabernacles (see Zechariah 14:16).
But he did not know what he was saying. 34 While he was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud.
The cloud is a symbol of God’s presence.
35 Then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my chosen Son; listen to him.”
This is the central point of this reading. Moses and Elijah (representatives of the old covenant) have left and Jesus remains to institute the new covenant. Just like Mary said at the wedding feast at Cana, “Do whatever He tells you.” See also Hebrews 1:1-2.
36 After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. They fell silent and did not at that time tell anyone what they had seen.
St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Picayune, MS http://www.scborromeo.org
SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT
SUNDAY, MARCH 17, LUKE 9:28b-36
(Genesis 15:5-12,17-18; Psalm 27; Philippians 3:17 ̶ 4:1).
SUNDAY, MARCH 17, LUKE 9:28b-36
(Genesis 15:5-12,17-18; Psalm 27; Philippians 3:17 ̶ 4:1).
KEY VERSE: Then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!" (v. 35).
TO KNOW: As Jesus set out to Jerusalem and to the cross, he went up the mountain, taking three of his closest companions to pray with him. The mountain was a place where Jesus regularly went to pray (Lk 6:12; 22:39-41). In the Old Testament, it was on Mount Sinai where God's revelation came to Moses the law-giver (Ex 19:3), and to Elijah the prophet on Mount Horeb (another name for Sinai; 1 Kgs 19:8). Like Moses on the mountain, Jesus' face became radiant with his encounter with God (Ex 34:29). Moses and Elijah appeared alongside Jesus, and together they spoke of Jesus' "exodus," his saving death whereby he would liberate people from sin. Peter's desire to remain on the mountain in "tents" was a reminder of the wilderness journey to the Promised Land when the people dwelt in branched huts. The Feast of Tabernacles, or "Booths" (Sukkot), commemorates this event. At the end of the book of Exodus there is an account of the completion of the tabernacle and the words: "Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle" (Ex 40:34). Jesus is the tabernacle of God's presence, and God's glory was manifested in a cloud that overshadowed him. Jesus is God's chosen one, God's beloved Son. He is a prophet like Moses to whom the people must listen (Dt 18:15).
TO LOVE: Am I listening to what Jesus is telling me during Lent?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus help me to desire your presence.
SAINT PATRICK'S DAY -- Though originally a
Catholic holy day, Saint Patrick's Day has evolved into more of a secular
holiday. Saint Patrick's Day was first publicly celebrated in America in 1737,
in Boston, Massachusetts. Today, people celebrate the day with parades and the
wearing of the green. One might say it has become the first green of spring.
The Irish greeting, Go méadaí Dia thú [guh maydee Jee-ah hoo, means
"May God increase you."
Saint Patrick' Breastplate: Christ shield me this day: Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left, Christ when I lie down, Christ when I arise, Christ in the heart of every person who thinks of me, Christ in every eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me.
Saint Patrick' Breastplate: Christ shield me this day: Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left, Christ when I lie down, Christ when I arise, Christ in the heart of every person who thinks of me, Christ in every eye that sees me, Christ in the ear that hears me.
Sunday 17 March 2019
2ND SUNDAY OF LENT.
Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18. Psalm 26(27):1, 7-9, 13-14. Philippians
3:17 – 4:1. Luke 9:28-36
The Lord is my light and my salvation – Psalm 26(27):1, 7-9,
13-14.
‘This is my son, my Chosen; listen to him!’
The Transfiguration is a pivotal event in all three synoptics.
It is the point where the powerful works of kingdom proclamation begin to give
place to the demands of discipleship. Once the Messiah has been identified, it
is time for the disciples to learn to walk in his ways. He will lead them on a
second Exodus, from the servitude of this world into the freedom of God’s
kingdom.
The way will be hard, so the Father provides one last assurance
that it is sure, despite appearances. Moses and Elijah appear in glory before
the transfigured Jesus and, while they speak to the Messiah, the Father
addresses the disciples. They are to fix their gaze on the Son and listen to
what he says. The Father works powerfully in Christians who read the gospels
assiduously and heed their ways.
Saint Patrick
Saint of the Day for March 17
(c. 386 – 461)
 |
| Sculpture of Saint Patrick of Ireland | Saint Augustine church, Baden-Württemberg, Germany | photo by Reinhardhauke |
Saint Patrick’s Story
Legends about Patrick abound; but truth is best served by our
seeing two solid qualities in him: He was humble and he was courageous. The
determination to accept suffering and success with equal indifference guided
the life of God’s instrument for winning most of Ireland for Christ.
Details of his life are uncertain. Current research places his
dates of birth and death a little later than earlier accounts. Patrick may have
been born in Dunbarton, Scotland, Cumberland, England, or in northern Wales. He
called himself both a Roman and a Briton. At 16, he and a large number of his
father’s slaves and vassals were captured by Irish raiders and sold as slaves
in Ireland. Forced to work as a shepherd, he suffered greatly from hunger and
cold.
After six years Patrick escaped, probably to France, and later
returned to Britain at the age of 22. His captivity had meant spiritual
conversion. He may have studied at Lerins, off the French coast; he spent years
at Auxerre, France, and was consecrated bishop at the age of 43. His great
desire was to proclaim the good news to the Irish.
In a dream vision it seemed “all the children of Ireland from
their mothers’ wombs were stretching out their hands” to him. He understood the
vision to be a call to do mission work in pagan Ireland. Despite opposition
from those who felt his education had been defective, he was sent to carry out
the task. He went to the west and north–where the faith had never been
preached–obtained the protection of local kings, and made numerous converts.
Because of the island’s pagan background, Patrick was emphatic
in encouraging widows to remain chaste and young women to consecrate their
virginity to Christ. He ordained many priests, divided the country into dioceses,
held Church councils, founded several monasteries and continually urged his
people to greater holiness in Christ.
He suffered much opposition from pagan druids and was criticized
in both England and Ireland for the way he conducted his mission. In a
relatively short time, the island had experienced deeply the Christian spirit,
and was prepared to send out missionaries whose efforts were greatly
responsible for Christianizing Europe.
Patrick was a man of action, with little inclination toward
learning. He had a rock-like belief in his vocation, in the cause he had
espoused. One of the few certainly authentic writings is his Confessio,
above all an act of homage to God for having called Patrick, unworthy sinner,
to the apostolate.
There is hope rather than irony in the fact that his burial
place is said to be in County Down in Northern Ireland, long the scene of
strife and violence.
Reflection
What distinguishes Patrick is the durability of his efforts.
When one considers the state of Ireland when he began his mission work, the
vast extent of his labors, and how the seeds he planted continued to grow and
flourish, one can only admire the kind of man Patrick must have been. The
holiness of a person is known only by the fruits of his or her work.
Saint Patrick is the Patron Saint of:
Engineers
Ireland
Nigeria
Ireland
Nigeria
Lectio Divina: 2nd Sunday of Lent (C)
Lectio Divina
Sunday, March 17, 2019
The Transfiguration of Jesus
A new way of fulfilling the prophecies
Luke 9:28-36
A new way of fulfilling the prophecies
Luke 9:28-36
1. Opening prayer
Lord Jesus, send Your Spirit to help us read the scriptures with
the same mind that You read them to the disciples on the way to Emmaus. In the
light of the Word, written in the bible, You helped them to discover the
presence of God in the disturbing events of Your sentence and death. Thus, the
cross that seemed to be the end of all hope became for them the source of life
and of resurrection.
Create silence in us so that we may listen to Your voice in creation and in the scriptures, in events and in people, above all, in the poor and suffering. May Your word guide us so that we too, like the two disciples on the way to Emmaus, may experience the force of Your resurrection and witness to others that You are alive in our midst as source of fraternity, justice and peace. We ask this of You, Jesus, son of Mary, who revealed the Father to us and sent us Your Spirit. Amen.
Create silence in us so that we may listen to Your voice in creation and in the scriptures, in events and in people, above all, in the poor and suffering. May Your word guide us so that we too, like the two disciples on the way to Emmaus, may experience the force of Your resurrection and witness to others that You are alive in our midst as source of fraternity, justice and peace. We ask this of You, Jesus, son of Mary, who revealed the Father to us and sent us Your Spirit. Amen.
2. Reading
a) A key to the reading:
A few days earlier, Jesus had said that He, the Son of Man, had
to be tried and crucified by the authorities (Lk 9:22; Mk 8:31). According to
the information in the gospels of Mark and Matthew, the disciples, especially
Peter, did not understand what Jesus had said and were scandalized by the news
(Mt 16:22; Mk 8:32). Jesus reacted strongly and turned to Peter calling him
Satan (Mt 16:23; Mk 8:33). This was because Jesus’ words did not correspond
with the ideal of the glorious Messiah whom they imagined. Luke does not
mention Peter’s reaction and Jesus’ strong reply, but he does describe, as do
the other Evangelists, the episode of the Transfiguration. Luke sees the
Transfiguration as an aid to the disciples so that they may be able to get over
the scandal and change their idea of the Messiah (Lk 9:28-36). Taking the three
disciples with Him, Jesus goes up the mountain to pray, and while He is
praying, is transfigured. As we read the text, it is good to note what follows:
“Who appears with Jesus on the mountain to converse with Him? What is the theme
of their conversation? What is the disciples’ attitude?”
b) A division of the text as an aid to the reading:
i) Luke 9:28: The moment of crisis
ii) Luke 9:29: The change that takes place during the prayer
iii) Luke 9:30-31: The appearance of the two men and their conversation with Jesus
iv) Luke 9:32-34: The disciples’ reaction
v) Luke 9:35-36: The Father’s voice
ii) Luke 9:29: The change that takes place during the prayer
iii) Luke 9:30-31: The appearance of the two men and their conversation with Jesus
iv) Luke 9:32-34: The disciples’ reaction
v) Luke 9:35-36: The Father’s voice
c) The text:
Jesus took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to
pray. While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing
became dazzling white. And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and
Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus that he was going to
accomplish in Jerusalem. Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep,
but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.
As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is
good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and
one for Elijah." But he did not know what he was saying. While he was
still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became
frightened when they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that
said, "This is my chosen Son; listen to him." After the voice had
spoken, Jesus was found alone. They fell silent and did not at that time tell
anyone what they had seen.
3. A moment of prayerful silence
so that the Word of God may penetrate and enlighten our life.
4. Some questions
to help us in our personal reflection.
a) What did you like most in this episode of the
Transfiguration? Why?
b) Who are those who go to the mountain with Jesus? Why do they go?
c) Moses and Elijah appear on the mountain next to Jesus. What is the significance of these two people from the Old Testament for Jesus, for the disciples, for the community in the 80s and for us today?
d) Which prophecy from the Old Testament is fulfilled in the words of the Father concerning Jesus?
e) What is the disciples’ attitude during this episode?
f) Has there been a transfiguration in your life? How have such experiences of transfiguration helped you to fulfill your mission better?
g) Compare Luke’s description of the Transfiguration of Jesus (Lk 9:28-36) with his description of the agony of Jesus in the Garden (Lk 22:39-46). Try to see whether there are any similarities. What is the significance of these similarities?
b) Who are those who go to the mountain with Jesus? Why do they go?
c) Moses and Elijah appear on the mountain next to Jesus. What is the significance of these two people from the Old Testament for Jesus, for the disciples, for the community in the 80s and for us today?
d) Which prophecy from the Old Testament is fulfilled in the words of the Father concerning Jesus?
e) What is the disciples’ attitude during this episode?
f) Has there been a transfiguration in your life? How have such experiences of transfiguration helped you to fulfill your mission better?
g) Compare Luke’s description of the Transfiguration of Jesus (Lk 9:28-36) with his description of the agony of Jesus in the Garden (Lk 22:39-46). Try to see whether there are any similarities. What is the significance of these similarities?
5. A key to the reading
for those who wish to go deeper into the theme.
a) The context of Jesus’ discourse:
In the two previous chapters of Luke’s Gospel, the innovation
brought by Jesus highlights the tensions between the New and the Old
Testaments. In the end, Jesus realized that no one had understood His meaning,
much less His person. People thought that He was like John the Baptist, Elijah
or some other prophet (Lk 9:18-19). The disciples accepted Him as the Messiah,
but a glorious Messiah, according to the expectations issued by the government
and the official religion of the temple (Lk 9:20-21). Jesus tried to explain to
His disciples that the journey foreseen by the prophets was one of suffering
because of its commitment to the excluded, and that a disciple could only be a
disciple if he/she took up his/her cross (Lk 9:22-26). But Jesus did not meet
with much success. It is in such a context of crisis that the Transfiguration
takes place.
In the 30s, the experience of the Transfiguration had a very important significance in the life of Jesus and the disciples. It helped them overcome the crisis of faith and to change their ideals concerning the Messiah. In the 80s, when Luke was writing for the Christian communities in Greece, the meaning of the Transfiguration had already been deepened and broadened. In the light of Jesus’ resurrection and of the spread of the Good News among the pagans in almost every country, from Palestine to Italy, the experience of the Transfiguration began to be seen as a confirmation of the faith of the Christian communities in Jesus, Son of God. The two meanings are present in the description and interpretation of the Transfiguration in Luke’s Gospel.
In the 30s, the experience of the Transfiguration had a very important significance in the life of Jesus and the disciples. It helped them overcome the crisis of faith and to change their ideals concerning the Messiah. In the 80s, when Luke was writing for the Christian communities in Greece, the meaning of the Transfiguration had already been deepened and broadened. In the light of Jesus’ resurrection and of the spread of the Good News among the pagans in almost every country, from Palestine to Italy, the experience of the Transfiguration began to be seen as a confirmation of the faith of the Christian communities in Jesus, Son of God. The two meanings are present in the description and interpretation of the Transfiguration in Luke’s Gospel.
b) A commentary on the text:
Luke 9:28: The moment of crisis.
On several occasions Jesus entered into conflict with the people and the religious and civil authorities of his time (Lk 4:28-29;5:21-20;6:2-11;7:30.39;8:37;9:9). He knew they would not allow Him to do the things He did. Sooner or later they would catch Him. Besides, in that society, the proclamation of the Kingdom, as Jesus did, was not to be tolerated. He either had to withdraw or face death! There were no other alternatives. Jesus did not withdraw. Hence the cross appears on the horizon, not just as a possibility but as a certainty (Lk 9:22). Together with the cross there also appears the temptation to go on with the idea of the Glorious Messiah and not of the Crucified, suffering servant, announced by the prophet Isaiah (Mk 8:32-33). At this difficult moment Jesus goes up the mountain to pray, taking with Him Peter, James and John. Through His prayer, Jesus seeks strength not to lose sense of direction in His mission (cf. Mk 1:35).
On several occasions Jesus entered into conflict with the people and the religious and civil authorities of his time (Lk 4:28-29;5:21-20;6:2-11;7:30.39;8:37;9:9). He knew they would not allow Him to do the things He did. Sooner or later they would catch Him. Besides, in that society, the proclamation of the Kingdom, as Jesus did, was not to be tolerated. He either had to withdraw or face death! There were no other alternatives. Jesus did not withdraw. Hence the cross appears on the horizon, not just as a possibility but as a certainty (Lk 9:22). Together with the cross there also appears the temptation to go on with the idea of the Glorious Messiah and not of the Crucified, suffering servant, announced by the prophet Isaiah (Mk 8:32-33). At this difficult moment Jesus goes up the mountain to pray, taking with Him Peter, James and John. Through His prayer, Jesus seeks strength not to lose sense of direction in His mission (cf. Mk 1:35).
Luke 9:29: The change that takes place during the
prayer.
As soon as Jesus starts praying, His appearance changes and He appears glorious. His face changes and His clothes become white and shining. It is the glory that the disciples imagined for the Messiah. This transformation told them clearly that Jesus was indeed the Messiah expected by all. But what follows the episode of the Transfiguration will point out that the way to glory is quite different from what they imagined. The Transfiguration will be a call to conversion.
As soon as Jesus starts praying, His appearance changes and He appears glorious. His face changes and His clothes become white and shining. It is the glory that the disciples imagined for the Messiah. This transformation told them clearly that Jesus was indeed the Messiah expected by all. But what follows the episode of the Transfiguration will point out that the way to glory is quite different from what they imagined. The Transfiguration will be a call to conversion.
Luke 9:30-31: Two men appear speaking with Jesus.
Together with Jesus and in the same glorious state there appear Moses and Elijah, the two major exponents of the Old Testament, representing the Law and the Prophets. They speak with Jesus about “the Exodus brought to fulfilment in Jerusalem”. Thus, in front of the disciples, the Law and the Prophets confirm that Jesus is truly the glorious Messiah, promised in the Old Testament and awaited by the whole people. They further confirm that the way to glory is through the painful way of the exodus. Jesus’ exodus is His passion, death and resurrection. Through His “exodus” Jesus breaks the dominion of the false idea concerning the Messiah spread by the government and by the official religion and that held all ensnared in the vision of a glorious, nationalistic messiah. The experience of the Transfiguration confirmed that Jesus as Messiah Servant constituted an aid to free them from their wrong ideas concerning the Messiah and to discover the real meaning of the Kingdom of God.
Together with Jesus and in the same glorious state there appear Moses and Elijah, the two major exponents of the Old Testament, representing the Law and the Prophets. They speak with Jesus about “the Exodus brought to fulfilment in Jerusalem”. Thus, in front of the disciples, the Law and the Prophets confirm that Jesus is truly the glorious Messiah, promised in the Old Testament and awaited by the whole people. They further confirm that the way to glory is through the painful way of the exodus. Jesus’ exodus is His passion, death and resurrection. Through His “exodus” Jesus breaks the dominion of the false idea concerning the Messiah spread by the government and by the official religion and that held all ensnared in the vision of a glorious, nationalistic messiah. The experience of the Transfiguration confirmed that Jesus as Messiah Servant constituted an aid to free them from their wrong ideas concerning the Messiah and to discover the real meaning of the Kingdom of God.
Luke 9:32-34: The disciples’ reaction.
The disciples were in deep sleep. When they woke up, they saw Jesus in His glory and the two men with Him. But Peter’s reaction shows that they were not aware of the real meaning of the glory in which Jesus appeared to them. As often happens with us, they were only aware of what concerned them. The rest escapes their attention. “Master, it is good for us to be here!” And they do not want to get off the mountain any more! When it is question of the cross, whether on the Mount of the Transfiguration or on the Mount of Olives (Lk 22:45), they sleep! They prefer the glory to the cross! They do not like to speak or hear of the cross. They want to make sure of the moment of glory on the mountain, to extend it, and they offer to build three tents. Peter did not know what he was saying.
While Peter was speaking, a cloud descended from on high and covered them with its shadow. Luke says that the disciples became afraid when the cloud enfolded them. The cloud is the symbol of the presence of God. The cloud accompanied the multitude on their journey through the desert (Ex 40:34-38; Num 10:11-12). When Jesus ascended into heaven, He was covered by a cloud and they no longer saw Him (Acts 1:9). This was a sign that Jesus had entered forever into God’s world.
The disciples were in deep sleep. When they woke up, they saw Jesus in His glory and the two men with Him. But Peter’s reaction shows that they were not aware of the real meaning of the glory in which Jesus appeared to them. As often happens with us, they were only aware of what concerned them. The rest escapes their attention. “Master, it is good for us to be here!” And they do not want to get off the mountain any more! When it is question of the cross, whether on the Mount of the Transfiguration or on the Mount of Olives (Lk 22:45), they sleep! They prefer the glory to the cross! They do not like to speak or hear of the cross. They want to make sure of the moment of glory on the mountain, to extend it, and they offer to build three tents. Peter did not know what he was saying.
While Peter was speaking, a cloud descended from on high and covered them with its shadow. Luke says that the disciples became afraid when the cloud enfolded them. The cloud is the symbol of the presence of God. The cloud accompanied the multitude on their journey through the desert (Ex 40:34-38; Num 10:11-12). When Jesus ascended into heaven, He was covered by a cloud and they no longer saw Him (Acts 1:9). This was a sign that Jesus had entered forever into God’s world.
Luke 9:35-36: The Father’s voice.
A voice is heard from the cloud that says: “This is My Son, the Chosen, listen to Him”. With this same sentence the prophet Isaiah had proclaimed the Messiah-Servant (Isa 42:1). First Moses and Elijah, now God Himself presents Jesus as the Messiah-Servant who will come to glory through the cross. The voice ends with a final admonition: “Listen to Him!” As the heavenly voice speaks, Moses and Elijah disappear and only Jesus is left. This signifies that from now on only He will interpret the scriptures and the will of God. He is the Word of God for the disciples: “Listen to Him!”
The proclamation “This is My Son, the Chosen; listen to Him” was very important for the community of the late 80s. Through this assertion God the Father confirmed the faith of Christians in Jesus as Son of God. In Jesus’ time, that is, in the 30s, the expression Son of Man pointed to a very high dignity and mission. Jesus Himself gave a relative meaning to the term by saying that all were children of God (cf. John 10:33-35). But for some the title Son of God became a resume of all titles, over one hundred that the first Christians gave Jesus in the second half of the first century. In succeeding centuries, it was the title of Son of God that the Church concentrated all its faith in the person of Jesus.
A voice is heard from the cloud that says: “This is My Son, the Chosen, listen to Him”. With this same sentence the prophet Isaiah had proclaimed the Messiah-Servant (Isa 42:1). First Moses and Elijah, now God Himself presents Jesus as the Messiah-Servant who will come to glory through the cross. The voice ends with a final admonition: “Listen to Him!” As the heavenly voice speaks, Moses and Elijah disappear and only Jesus is left. This signifies that from now on only He will interpret the scriptures and the will of God. He is the Word of God for the disciples: “Listen to Him!”
The proclamation “This is My Son, the Chosen; listen to Him” was very important for the community of the late 80s. Through this assertion God the Father confirmed the faith of Christians in Jesus as Son of God. In Jesus’ time, that is, in the 30s, the expression Son of Man pointed to a very high dignity and mission. Jesus Himself gave a relative meaning to the term by saying that all were children of God (cf. John 10:33-35). But for some the title Son of God became a resume of all titles, over one hundred that the first Christians gave Jesus in the second half of the first century. In succeeding centuries, it was the title of Son of God that the Church concentrated all its faith in the person of Jesus.
c) A deepening:
i) The Transfiguration is told in three of the Gospels: Matthew
(Mt 17:1-9), Mark (Mk 9:2-8) and Luke (Lk 9:28-36). This is a sign that this
episode contained a very important message. As we said, it was a matter of
great help to Jesus, to His disciples and to the first communities. It
confirmed Jesus in His mission as Messiah-Servant. It helped the disciples to
overcome the crisis that the cross and suffering caused them. It led the
communities to deepen their faith in Jesus, Son of God, the One who revealed
the Father and who became the new key to the interpretation of the Law and the
Prophets. The Transfiguration continues to be of help in overcoming the crisis
that the cross and suffering provoke today. The three sleeping disciples are a
reflection of all of us. The voice of the Father is directed to us as it was to
them: “This is My Son, the Chosen; listen to Him!”
ii) In Luke’s Gospel there is a great similarity between the
scene of the Transfiguration (Lk 9:28-36) and the scene of the agony of Jesus
in the Garden of Olives (Lk 22:39-46). We may note the following: in both
scenes Jesus goes up the mountain to pray and takes with Him three disciples,
Peter, James and John. On both occasions, Jesus’ appearance is transformed and
He is transfigured before them; glorious at the Transfiguration, perspiring
blood in the Garden of Olives. Both times heavenly figures appear to comfort
Him, Moses and Elijah and an angel from heaven. Both in the Transfiguration and
in the Agony, the disciples sleep, they seem to be outside the event and they
seem not to understand anything. At the end of both episodes, Jesus is reunited
with His disciples. Doubtless, Luke intended to emphasize the resemblance
between these two episodes. What would that be? Perhaps it is to show that
understanding takes time and effort, even for the Apostles, so we should
persevere and not be asleep, especially at those crucial moments in our lives
when He is revealing Himself to us personally. It is in meditating and praying
that we shall come to understand the meaning that goes beyond words, and to
perceive the intention of the author. The Holy Spirit will guide us.
iii) Luke describes the Transfiguration. There are times in our
life when suffering is such that we might think: “God has abandoned me! He is
no longer with me!” And then suddenly we realize that He has never deserted us,
but that we had our eyes bandaged and were not aware of the presence of God.
Then everything is changed and transfigured. It is the transfiguration! This
happens every day in our lives.
6. Psalm 42 (41)
“My soul thirsts for the living God!”
As a dear longs for flowing streams,
so longs my soul for Thee, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When shall I come and behold the face of God?
so longs my soul for Thee, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When shall I come and behold the face of God?
My tears have been my food day and night,
while men say to me continually, "Where is your God?"
These things I remember, as I pour out my soul:
how I went with the throng,
and led them in procession to the house of God,
with glad shouts and songs of thanksgiving,
a multitude keeping festival.
while men say to me continually, "Where is your God?"
These things I remember, as I pour out my soul:
how I went with the throng,
and led them in procession to the house of God,
with glad shouts and songs of thanksgiving,
a multitude keeping festival.
Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him,
my help and my God.
My soul is cast down within me;
therefore I remember Thee from the land of Jordan
and of Hermon, from Mount Mizar.
Deep calls to deep at the roar of Your torrents;
all Thy waves and breakers have gone over me.
and why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him,
my help and my God.
My soul is cast down within me;
therefore I remember Thee from the land of Jordan
and of Hermon, from Mount Mizar.
Deep calls to deep at the roar of Your torrents;
all Thy waves and breakers have gone over me.
By day the Lord commands His steadfast love;
and at night His song is with me,
a prayer to the God of my life.
I say to God, my rock:
"Why hast Thou forgotten me?
Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?"
As with a deadly wound in my body,
my adversaries taunt me,
while they say to me continually,
"Where is your God?"
and at night His song is with me,
a prayer to the God of my life.
I say to God, my rock:
"Why hast Thou forgotten me?
Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?"
As with a deadly wound in my body,
my adversaries taunt me,
while they say to me continually,
"Where is your God?"
Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him,
my help and my God.
and why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him,
my help and my God.
7. Final Prayer
Lord Jesus, we thank You for the word that has enabled us to
understand better the will of the Father. May Your Spirit enlighten our actions
and grant us the strength to practice what Your Word has revealed to us. May
we, like Mary, Your mother, not only listen to but also practice the Word. You
who live and reign with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit forever and
ever. Amen.
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