Second Sunday of Lent…March 5, 2023

by Kris Lanik, Notre Dame Associate

Every 2nd Sunday of Lent the Gospel reading describes the mystery of the Transfiguration of our Lord, Jesus.  In studying the holy Gospel according to Matthew, the word conversing caught my eye.  “And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him.”  The Gospel doesn’t say they were simply listening to Jesus.  They were in dialogue with him.

Conversation is a giving and receiving.  Speaking and listening go hand in hand.  We are called to listen to Jesus. “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”  In his recent Lenten reflection, Pope Francis stated:

“In addition to the Scriptures, the Lord speaks to us through our brothers and sisters, especially in the faces and the stories of those who are in need…listening to Christ often takes place in listening to our brothers and sisters…”

The Lenten season is a time for us to prioritize personal spiritual growth.  It lends itself to taking extra time for conversing with Jesus.  This week I suggest we pray with our Lord asking for the grace to more intently listen to His voice as well as listening to the needs of others.  Serving others is an opportunity to be in dialogue.  It is time for giving and receiving.  May our Lord give each of us the grace necessary to enhance our personal ministry.