In today’s Scripture readings we are presented with two astonishing stories. In the first reading we hear about the sacrifice of Isaac by Abraham (see Genesis 22:1-18), and in the Gospel we hear about the Transfiguration of Jesus on the mountain (see Mark 9:2-10). In both of these accounts we find themes which tell of the need for possible suffering as a part of the process of achieving salvation, the goal of faith.
In the first reading, which is in many ways difficult to understand, Abraham obediently followed the command of God to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice. We can only imagine how difficult it must have been for Abraham as he traveled with his beloved son to that place of the anticipated sacrifice.
In the Gospel, God the Father prepared Peter, James and John for the suffering and death of Jesus as he commanded “this is my Son, listen to him.” We know that these same followers of Jesus were later put to the test when they accompanied Jesus to Jerusalem, and where they witnessed his crucifixion and death.
Both of today’s Scripture stories allude to the need for faith, obedience and suffering before the glory of the victory can be achieved. The question for us is: “as we continue our Lenten journey, what can we learn from the message contained in these readings?”
We know that Abraham had to look beyond the terrible difficulty of the choice placed before him; he had to walk in faith and reject any fear he might have had that God would not remain faithful to him. The three apostles experienced a “changed world” because of the Transfiguration of Jesus. Because of it, they began to realize the difficult journey ahead of them and the great responsibilities they would have as faithful disciples. Although it might have been easier for each of the people in today’s readings to live in fear, they all had to look at their changed worlds, and they were each challenged to accept the responsibilities and possible sufferings they would likely endure.
People who have confident faith, such as Abraham, Peter, James, and John, are able to remain positive, and they are able to prevail in the face of any possible trials and sufferings. Such people are always able to proclaim, as did the apostles that “it is good to be with God.” Perhaps in our own lives, we have suffered valiantly in the various trials and difficulties of life, and then we have used those sufferings in order to achieve closer relationships with God. Perhaps we have been inspired by others we have known who have done this as well.
My friends, as we continue our Lenten journey, and the day to day struggles of our own lives, may we too walk by faith and not ever live in fear. May we see the glory of God all around us and live in the knowledge of his love, a love that lasts forever and that conquers all fears and sufferings! May we always keep our eyes focused on our salvation, the goal of our faith!
Praise God! Friar Timothy
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