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In today's first reading from
Genesis, the covenant between God and Abraham is sealed in blood with
animal sacrifice. Later, God would test Abraham’s faithfulness by asking
him to sacrifice his son, Isaac. Convinced of Abraham’s obedience,
God allowed him to substitute a ram in place of his son. For those who
think religion is the opiate of the masses, or all about feeling good
with God, the concept of covenant in blood should change their minds.
Entering into covenant with the Almighty means placing God first before
everything else, over family, even our own life. This total
commitment to God was perfectly fulfilled in Jesus. He established
the New Covenant between God and man for us. He did it only by pouring
out his own life on the cross. As disciples we must do the same.
Paul reminds us that we cannot be enemies of the cross. If our god is
our stomach and our glory is our shame, we are doomed. Our minds cannot
be set on earthly things; no, we must be imitators of Christ.
Today’s selection from Luke
is prefaced with the words, “About eight days after he said this, he
took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray.” We
should wonder just what Jesus said before the Transfiguration. He was
speaking to his disciples about his coming passion. He told them they
must take up their cross and follow him. He warned them not to be
scandalized by what was going to happen. Then, Luke tells us, eight days
later Jesus took his elect disciples up on the mountain to pray.
We can identify with Peter and the others who were not very good at
prayer, but were pretty good at falling asleep. They awaken to witness
Jesus transfigured before them in glory. Two important figures from the
Old Testament, Moses and Elijah appeared conversing with Jesus. The
disciples are amazed, but not terrified. Peter spoke for the group.
Master, how good it is that we are here.
Let us build three tents and
continue to enjoy this glorious experience. Peter saw the glory of the
Transfiguration but he did not see the cost. When the cloud of
God’s presence overshadowed them, then the apostles became terrified.
The divine voice of the Father instructed the apostles, listen [obey] my
chosen Son. It was no time for building tents or thinking about glory to
come. It was time to listen and obey the beloved, the chosen Son of God.
The glory of the resurrection came at the incredible price of Christ's
suffering and death.
In this second week of Lent
we might ask, am I ready to listen [obey] the teachings of Jesus? Do I
read the gospels, so as to know his teachings? Am I walking with Christ
crucified? Or am I only willing to walk with the glorious Christ? Can I
experience one without the other? Where is Christ suffering in my life?
What am I doing about it? |
