Just Say Yes!
On the second Sunday of Lent, we reflect on the theme of obedience and
sacrifice. During Lent, it is customary for believers to give up something as a
form of self-discipline and sacrifice. Let us explore the range of human feelings
and emotions accompanying this act of giving up.
When we decide to give up something, we may experience mixed emotions.
We might feel a sense of reluctance or sadness as we separate ourselves from
something that brings us comfort or pleasure; or we may feel a sense of freedom
as we detach ourselves from things and focus more on spiritual growth.
In the first reading, God puts Abraham to the test by commanding him to take
his beloved son, Isaac, and offer him as a burnt offering. It is safe to assume that
Abraham experienced a wide range of emotions in this unimaginable situation.
He was a man of faith who had previously bargained with God to save the cities
of Sodom and Gomorrah. Now, he faced the daunting task of sacrificing his son.
Despite his emotions, Abraham chose to listen and obey God, recognizing that
God’s will surpasses human understanding. In this act of obedience, Abraham
exemplifies the virtue of trust and surrenders to God’s plan.
In the Gospel reading, we witness the transfiguration of Jesus. As Jesus is
transfigured before Peter, James, and John, a voice from Heaven declares, “This
is my beloved son. Listen to him.” Here, we see the ultimate act of sacrifice and
obedience. God sacrificed His only Son, Jesus, to save humanity from their sins
and draw them back into a relationship with Him. Jesus, through His obedience
to the Father’s will, reveals two important aspects of our lives. Firstly, when we
obediently follow God’s ways, He draws nearer to us, thus we benefit from our
sacrifice. Secondly, obedience is an expression of humility. Only humble people
can truly appreciate God’s mysterious and beautiful ways. Obedience and
humility are the lessons that Jesus teaches us if we desire true freedom.Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor
As we navigate this Lenten season, it is crucial that we not only listen to
Jesus but also follow His example of obedience to God. By immersing ourselves
in God’s Word, we can better understand His teachings and the path He calls us
to follow. As we give up certain things for Lent, let us embrace the range of
emotions that arise, knowing that our sacrifice is an act of love and devotion to
God. May we approach this season with open hearts, allowing God to transform
us and draw us closer to Him through our obedience and humility. Let us listen to
Jesus by reading and meditating on God’s words, and may our obedience to God
become the pathway to the abundant and fulfilling life we seek.