Second Sunday of Lent
Sunday Says
Lectionary: 27 (NAB Translation)
Reading 1
Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18
This week’s first reading from the first book of the Bible is the story how God speaks to Abram to offer him descendants as numerous as the stars. In the second paragraph it becomes a little strange to our generation to hear the choice offerings for the sacrifice. There is some connection between the upcoming sacrifices and this offering, but this was also a common practice at the time to bind a contract. This was very different in that Abram was never set as an equal with God.
Much of this whole process is mysterious and required deep faith from Abram. In this season of Lent, we must also learn a deeper trust in the Lord, even when we can’t see what is coming out of current situations.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 27:1, 7-8, 8-9, 13-14
- (1a) The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Reading 2
Philippians 3:17—4:1
This week’s second reading from St Paul’s letter to the Philippians is a reminder of where we come from and where we are going. It’s easy for us to forget that this world is not our ultimate reality. He reminds us that our lives must be oriented towards the final goal. The season of Lent is an opportunity to reorient ourselves in the many ways that we get distracted.
Verse Before The Gospel CF. Matthew 17:5
From the shining cloud the Father’s voice is heard:
This is my beloved Son, hear him.
Gospel
Luke 9:28B-36
This week’s Gospel from St Luke tells the story of the Transfiguration on the mountain. We see a connection between the old and the new. There is a clear continuity shown from the old law to the new life offered in Jesus. The exodus from Jerusalem is the distinct characteristic of this story. Unlike the events that happened in the past, the suffering that would happen upon the cross would be what changed everything.
Sometimes we are tempted to be like the Apostles that wanted to stay up on the mountain, but Lent is a journey through the desert where we willingly accept the trials and purification to grow closer to Him.
Gospel meditation from Bishop Vásquez
Reflection question
Today’s Gospel account of the Transfiguration occurs eight days after Jesus’ first prediction of his Passion. Moses and Elijah speak to Jesus about his coming exodus. Like the apostles, we at times may want to linger in places that are pleasant and avoid challenging or painful situations. Today’s Gospel gives us encouragement in our Lenten journey. The voice from heaven encourages us to listen attentively to Jesus. Are we willing to act when Jesus invites us to confront challenges and situations?
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