Transformation

As we begin the second week of Lent we might want to think about the transformation we are hoping to bring about.  Behaviors don't change overnight...usually it takes five months from the "aha!" moment of insight to a noticeable deviation from our usual patterns of speaking or acting. We hope to become more like Jesus, as we spend time with him quietly, reflecting on his words in the Gospels, using some of the many Lenten books of reflections, making the stations of the cross, attending daily Mass, and walking the extra mile in community service.  Wanting to change, praying from the depths of our being, asking Jesus from those depths to make us more like he is are the keys to making the slow, gradual process of renewal a reality that will last.
Our Sunday Gospel story brings us to Mt. Tabor and the blinding presence of the transfigured Jesus who allowed his glory to be visible as a means of encouraging Peter, James and John to keep faith in him in the dark days to come.  Peter exclaims, "It is good for us to be here." (Mt 17:4).  Yes, it is good for us to be here in Lent, making that extra effort, feeling the little pinch (or big) from the sacrifices we are making.  (No pain, no gain.)
Like these three disciples, our focus must be on Jesus, even though we don't see tangible results immediately, trusting that he, seeing the sincerity in our hearts, will transform us.
Bro. Rene