From The Bishop

In the Gospel for the Second Sunday of Lent (Mt. 17:1-9) we are presented with the Transfiguration which is all about transformation. In the presence of Peter, James, and John, Jesus “was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white.” In this event, we see the glory of God and a significant truth is revealed: Jesus is the Son of God who is loved by the Father. From a spiritual perspective, Lent should provide us with a ‘Transfiguration’ experience. We go to the mountaintop with Jesus and experience his glory. From what we see and hear there is spiritual transformation. God’s glory should be seen in us as we remove those obstacles that seem to get in the way of personal holiness. During Lent, by our prayer, fasting, and works of charity, we slowly remove all of those obstacles that prevent God’s glory from shining forth from each one of us. As Peter said to Jesus in the Gospel, “Lord, it is good for us to be here.” It is good for us to be in the midst of Lent, for we are presented with this wonderful opportunity for personal conversion. It is interesting to note that at the beginning of the ‘mountaintop experience’ it was pleasant, and at the end the three apostles were afraid. Sometimes as we deepen our relationship with the Lord, it becomes more difficult because He may be asking us to change and this is not easy. At times we may even be afraid. We need to put our trust in God. We see this with Abraham in the First Reading. He trusted in God and became the father of a great nation. During the remaining days of Lent, let us gaze upon God’s glory so that we can be transformed into the likeness of Christ.