March 01, 2026・2nd Sunday of Lent (A)

Gen 1-4a・ Psalm 33.4+5, 12+13, 20+21・ 2 Timothy 1.8b-10・Matthew17.1-9

A very important moment in the relationship between Jesus and His disciples is the moment when His disciples are able to recognize that Jesus aside from simply being their Teacher, is the Christ, the Savior, and expected Messiah of Israel. Another important moment in their relationship is the moment (faith at stake) when Jesus started informing them that their Teacher (He Himself), the Messiah they have fully recognized, will be undergoing sooner or later, “a handling over” to people who consider Him their threat and enemy, “a crucifixion” and eventually “death” on the Cross. Rising from the dead after three days is another thing to be well understood by His disciples. We, like His first disciples, are longing for long lasting happiness for example, for a Messiah who will permanently free us from many kinds of life`s difficulties. When we have found the best place for us, we will want to stay forever, and wish it to be everlasting. Who would not long to, not tomorrow but now! However, we are all invited to further reflect on our present life on earth, to find courage and joy in fulfilling the work in the vineyard of the Lord. It is basically the invitation of our Gospel reading today while inviting us too to trust Him more as the One sent by the Heavenly Father.

Our baptism reminds us that we are people being sent to spread the love of God and the peace of Christ. We are all sent to give strength to the weak, to give voice to the voiceless, to let others speak, to give others a space and place for peace and quiet through justice and forgiveness. Our first reading from the book of Genesis well explains that mandate. A child of God who truly listens to His Word, is willing to be sent. We have a very special understanding here of how is it “to be sent.” Following the story of Abram and others being sent to lead the People of God, as they respond to the calling on leading God`s people, they were not left all alone to do their job. God who sent them remained present and faithful to protect them against their enemies.

In our second reading, the encouraging invitation to Timothy is saying the same thing. It is an invitation not just coming from a fellow human being but it is indeed a Holy Invitation. We respond with the power of God giving us strength and patience. We put our trust to the Lord who is sending us.

We are given a very conducive theme in observance of Lent, be able to spend more time in quiet. We may even find a place conducive for retreat. We may even have the best chance to hear inspirational talks. We may even find a good book to read. Moreover, we ought not to forget too that Christian life is best spent sharing our joys and sorrows with others. We have been receivers of God`s grace. Let us be courageous channels of God`s many graces.