2nd Sunday in Lent March 16th 2025
Matthew 17: 1-9 After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 2 There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. 3 Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus.
4 Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.”
5 While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”
6 When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. 7 But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” 8 When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus.
9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them, “Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”
Second Sunday in Lent Reflection – The Transfiguration
The Transfiguration of Christ stands as a profound moment in the Gospel narrative, revealing the divine nature of Jesus to His closest disciples—Peter, James, and John. It is a moment when the veil between heaven and earth is briefly lifted, offering a glimpse of Christ’s glory and His unique role as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. The appearance of Moses and Elijah alongside Jesus signifies the continuity of God’s salvation plan, bridging the Old Testament with the New.
In the bright radiance of Christ’s transfigured form, we see a foreshadowing of the resurrection, a reminder of God’s promise to bring renewal and eternal life. The disciples’ reaction—both awe and fear—mirrors human frailty when confronted with the divine. Yet, the voice of God declaring, “This is my beloved Son, listen to Him,” redirects their focus to the call to discipleship and trust in Jesus’ teachings.
The Transfiguration invites us to reflect on our own journey of faith, urging us to seek transformation in Christ. It challenges us to move beyond superficial understanding and enter into a deeper communion with God. Just as the disciples descended from the mountain to continue their mission, we are reminded that spiritual encounters are not meant to isolate us but to empower us to live out God’s will in our daily lives.
Prayer: Lord of glory, as we reflect on the Transfiguration, we are reminded of Your divine power and the promise of renewal. Help us to open our hearts to Your presence and to be transformed by Your love. May we climb the mountains of faith with courage and humility, trusting in Your guidance. Teach us to listen to Your voice and to follow You more closely each day. Amen.