‘Rise, have no fear.’
Traditionally on this second Sunday of Lent, we read and pray with the Transfiguration of Jesus. Matthew, Mark and Luke all tell us that this event took place on a high mountain. It is an episode that gives us a glimpse of both Jesus’s humanity and his divinity, where Jesus reassures his friends – and us – that there is no need to be afraid, even as we witness such extraordinary things. (Gospel)
In the First Reading, the Lord speaks to Abram, telling him to leave behind everything he knows. The promise of great blessings will follow.
The Psalm reflects on the faithfulness of God’s word. He will be our help and shield if, like Abram, we place our hope in him.
Both Abram’s call and the disciples’ witnessing of the Transfiguration do not occur as a reward, but by God’s ‘own purpose and grace’ (Second Reading). Paul encourages Timothy to accept the hardships he encounters, relying on the power of God, and strengthened by the grace of the appearing of Jesus Christ.
As we continue our Lenten journey, we may like to focus our prayer this week on all those who are afraid, asking that they place their hope in the Lord and experience the comfort of his love.
