One of the ways to keep the spirit of Lent is to gaze at Jesus, to listen to his words, and to follow his ways. Last Sunday, he taught us how to overcome our temptations by not giving in to human desires and wants, but focusing on the Word of God. Allowing it to convict us. By avoiding the occasion of sin, and avoiding "short-cuts" devoid of pain and suffering. And by totally being dependent on God, asking the Holy Spirit to help us overcome our temptations and sins.

Today, the second Sunday, we hear the beautiful story of the transfiguration of Jesus. (Mt 17:1-9) Prior to this incident, we hear in Matthew about Jesus laying down the conditions of discipleship. "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and come follow me." (Mt. 16:24)

To understand the deeper meaning of this Gospel account, let me reflect with you the salient points of the pericope.

Jesus took Peter, James and John up a high mountain (this is identified as Mount Tabor). A mountain is a of encounter in the scripture. Moses and Elijah encounter God in a deeper way at Mount Sanai and Mount Horeb. Whenever, Jesus would show his glory (his divine power), he would set aside Peter, James and John. Jesus did this, when he cured the daughter of Jairus. He was transfigured before them, his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. This is the description of the glory and divinity of Jesus according to the evangelist.

Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with Jesus. Moses represents the Law and Elijah represents the Prophets. In Matthew's context, Jesus' prediction of his passion and death that scandalizes the disciples is the fulfillment of the Law and Prophets. Both Moses and Elijah agree with Jesus to take upon himself the role of the suffering servant.

"Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah." Peter was overwhelmed by the glory of God's transcendence that he desires it to be permanent by making three tents.

"Behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud a voice that said: "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased, listen to him." A cloud signifies the presence of God. Remember, God appears in a cloud whenever God would talk to him in the tent. God accompanied the people of Israel in their sojourn in the desert by means of a cloud during the day and a pillar of fire during the evening. God confirming that Jesus is the Son of God who is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets whom we must listen with understanding.

"Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead." The transfigured vision of Christ glory points that Jesus is divine, the Son of God. He warns them not to reveal his divinity because he might be misconstrued by the people. His resurrection will definitely point to the truth that Jesus is God. What does this transfiguration story would like to inspire, convict and challenge us?

First, in this season of Lent, let us look for a "mountain", an "inner room", "a sacred place" wherein we can encounter the presence of God is a deeper and personal way.

Second, let us allow the Law and the Prophets to convict us by knowing the 10 commandments by heart and using them to examine our conscience; and allowing the words of the prophets to inspire and convict us.

Third, the Father is appealing to us to listen to his Son with understanding on this season of Lent. In order to listen, we have to appreciate silence and refrain from noise. Find time to be silent, read and meditate a passage in a scripture...and dispose yourself in the presence of God. As the scripture says: "Be still and know that I am God." Allow the glory and the presence of God to engulf you.

Incidentally, we have decided to refrain the use of the bell during consecration in this season of Lent. We want you to gaze at Jesus and allow him to gaze at you. Say to in your heart: "My Lord and my God." or "Jesus, I trust in you." or "Jesus, have mercy on me, a sinner." Likewise, we invite you to avail of the sacrament of confession, 30 minutes before the Mass during Lent. Fr. Guido and myself will be there.

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