Listen To Him

We begin the second week of Lent with the scene of the Transfiguration: a resplendent Jesus in dazzling white garments, Moses, Elijah, three confused apostles, the Father's voice affirming, "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him." and a warning to the three to speak nothing of what they had seen till Jesus had risen from the dead. (Mk 9: 2-10). Jesus is the central figure, singled out by the Father, and surpassing the great lawgiver and prophet.  As candidates for Baptism prepare for their own transformation, they are reminded of this hierarchy:  Jesus first, then the law and the prophets.   The lesson hold for us as well.  No substitutes for Jesus.  To him only must we listen.  We might not always understand his words, his call, as did the apostles who could not fathom what this "rising form the dead" meant.  Not at that time, but later it became clear.  If our own transformation is to continue, especially during Lent, we must listen and follow, even without full and clear understanding.  Why, do things go wrong and spoil our mapped out plan?  Later we might see why.  Even our sins can be lessons that have a fruitful side:  more compassion to other sinners, more understanding of our vulnerability, deeper appreciation for the grace of forgiveness, and a stronger resolve to avoid those same sins in the future.  Jesus, help me to listen better, trust more completely, and follow more lovingly.
Bro. Rene