March 1, 2026
2nd Sunday
Lent
FOCUS: The Transfiguration is a sign of hope.
The Transfiguration is a sign of hope. When Jesus was transfigured before his disciples, they had a glimpse of the glorified future that awaits the faithful. Through the power of Jesus Christ, we can be transformed, leading the holy lives to which he calls us. Filled with his light and goodness, we will shine with his glory in this life and in the world to come.
What's in Your Heart
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Where have you borne the "hardships" for the sake of the gospel Saint Paul writes of in Romans? What were or are they? How does God strengthen you in the face of difficulties?
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Abraham sets forth into the unknown with nothing but God's promise. When have you found yourself in a similar situation? How has God led you, and how have you answered God's call?
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In the story of the Transfiguration, Saint Peter is in such awe and rapture that he does not want to leave. Where have you encountered such moments on the mountaintop, experiences of God so intense and satisfying you could have felt them forever?
Homily Stories
As I walked through the ornate cemetery on the outskirts of the family hometown in Southern Italy with my cousin, I searched for family names on the graves. There were many such names, but not all were relatives. Each of the monuments had a photograph of the deceased, and after studying the name and photo, I would say to my cousin, who had lived his entire life in that small town, whether I thought they were relatives. Usually I was right, and my cousin was surprised that I could so easily figure it out. He kept asking me how I knew. Finally I smiled and pointed to my nose. "La nas," I said in the dialect. It is just too easy to spot our distinct and prominent noses.
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During Lent it is good to remember that we are descendants of Abraham; his faith is in us. Our relationship with God goes back to antiquity. God has been faithful in the covenant made with us, and we, while not completely faithful, have tried to respond with the same faith.
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When Moses and Elijah appear with Jesus on the mountain, the disciples are reminded that Jesus continues to offer that same gift from God. But even more than being of Abraham's lineage, Jesus is also the Son of God.
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The disciples eventually came to realize that they will make a covenant on Holy Thursday when Jesus says to them, "Do this in memory of me." But none of that can take place until Good Friday and Easter Sunday become a reality. So Lent continues.
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