This second Sunday in Lent we hear the account of the Transfiguration of Jesus atop Mount Tabor. The Catholic Church understands the Transfiguration as a significant event (an epiphany) to reveal the Divinity of Jesus and as a manifestation of His glory. This epiphany happened before three of His disciples, Peter, James and John as well as in the presence of Moses and Elijah, who spoke with Jesus. The account holds that Jesus’ face shone like the sun and His clothes became dazzling white.

The Transfiguration of Jesus is a confirmation of Jesus’ identity as the Son of God and the fulfillment of the law and the prophets, represented by the presence of Moses and Elijah. This second Sunday considers what our response is to Christ’s Transfiguration, and how it affects our faith life in the modern world. To that end, let us consider Peter’s response.

In a nutshell, many believe that Peter’s response, desiring to build three tents, was meant to prolong the extraordinary experience in which he was involved. It is natural for human beings to want to extend the experience of something amazing, something powerful, even life changing. Yet God’s Voice calls them to movement: to listen to Jesus’ Voice and to heed His authority as the Son of God. Today you and I are called to do something, to change things up, and to grow in our faith by listening to the Son of God.

For Lent, this gospel account of the Transfiguration instructs us to listen to Christ’s voice and to follow His Words, His Teachings, for He is the Son of God. And our way of living our faith needs a “transfiguration” of itself. If, as the Church illustrates, the Transfiguration is a foreshadowing of the Resurrection, it should then serve as a source of inspiration for us to step into the waters of faith and live out our daily lives as His disciples. Will I be inspired to forgive someone who has offended or hurt me? Will I count my blessings this Lent—my home, family, job, food, and health and try to make a less fortunate person experience something of the same? How will I become “Christ” to another in the world? Thus, knowing of Christ’s Transfiguration on Mount Tabor, understanding His Glorified state, am I inspired to learn more about His Word and how I can incorporate it into my life—to offering healing, love and hope to someone in need? Perhaps, take up a Bible Study too?