HOMILY OF 2ND SUNDAY OF LENT, YEAR A: Suffering
1st reading: Gen. 12:2-4; 2nd reading: 2 Tim. 1:8-10; Gospel: Matt. 17:1-9
Suffering, in its many forms, disrupts the harmony within us, stemming from physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional forces. It casts a shadow of isolation and threatens our very existence. Throughout history, humans have grappled with the reasons behind suffering and its meaning in our lives. The question that lingers is whether our suffering can hold merit and usher in blessings?
The Call and Obedience of Abraham exemplify his unwavering faith.
Abraham, the man of unwavering faith, stands as the spiritual father of all who trust in God amid life’s trials. In the first reading, we witness his resolute response to God’s call. God beckoned him to forsake his ancestral land and embark on an arduous journey to a foreign land, filled with uncertainties and dangers. Despite being childless, Abraham placed unwavering trust in the divine promises: “I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great so that you will be a blessing.” “I will bless those who bless you, and him who curses you I will curse, and by you, all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (Genesis 12:2-3).
Our Call to Obedience
In Abraham’s obedience, we find a reflection of our Christian vocation. We are summoned to heed God’s voice even when challenges loom large. We must step out of our comfort zones, abandon our old ways of life, and sincerely follow God’s words and divine plans. Through unwavering obedience, we too shall be enveloped in God’s blessings.
The Transfiguration’s message reveals the glorious splendor of Jesus Christ.
The gospel reading unfolds as a wellspring of hope for Jesus Christ’s disciples. Previously, Jesus had foretold His suffering and humiliation (Matthew 16:21–25), a message they struggled to grasp. To fortify them against the impending cross and apparent failure, Jesus unveiled a glimpse of His future glory.
A Definitive Identity
The disciples were awestruck by the radiant splendor of Jesus Christ during His Transfiguration. Amid their astonishment, God’s voice from a bright cloud resonated, affirming Jesus as the Beloved Son, the Chosen One, and the ultimate authority to whom we must listen (Matthew 17:5). This divine revelation fortified their faith.
Invitation to Bear Authentic Witness for Christ
The presence of Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets, heralds the Passion of Christ. “When we partake in the Eucharistic celebration, we encounter Jesus Christ, who challenges and deepens our faith.
Christ’s assurance of blessings after suffering underscores the necessity of suffering
In the second reading, St. Paul underscores the importance of suffering for the sake of the gospel. He reminds Timothy that suffering is an inherent part of following Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 1:8). As Jesus admonished His disciples, “If any of you wants to be my disciple, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34). Christ’s assurance accompanies these sufferings: “I have told you these things, so that in me, you may have peace. In this world, you will suffer many persecutions, but be courageous, I have conquered the world” (John 16:33).
Christians Victory comes through Suffering
Jesus Christ’s victory was achieved through suffering and patient endurance, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross. His capacity for suffering matched His perfect humanity, ethical excellence, and unwavering commitment to righteousness, holiness, and truth. As our High Priest, Jesus stands ready to strengthen us in our trials. Success often emerges from struggles and suffering.
Embracing Suffering
St. Peter encourages those facing unjust sufferings, initiated by the devil, to endure and look forward to eternal glory in Christ. He reminds us that suffering for righteousness is a blessing (1 Peter 3:14; 4:1, 15; 5:10). It is through suffering that we share in Christ’s journey.
Conclusion
Today’s readings illuminate the significance of suffering and self-mortification, especially during Lent. Christ’s Transfiguration promises glory already available through our Baptism. In the obedience and sufferings of Abraham and Jesus Christ, we find blessings for ourselves and others. Good people often suffer many tribulations, but the Almighty God will always deliver them (Psalm 34:19).
In conclusion, suffering paves the way for blessings. The glory to be revealed to us far outweighs the sufferings of this present time” (Romans 8:18). “This momentary suffering is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17). Let us trust in God’s word, not merely by studying it or experiencing it spiritually, but by living it daily, sacrificing for the sake of the gospel, and ultimately becoming a beacon of Christ’s light in the world.
PRAYER:
May the Holy Spirit strengthen you in your sufferings, bless your struggles with success, and in the end, may you receive the crown of unfading glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Peace of Christ be with you…
Rev. Fr. Ben Okala, C.S.Sp.
