Sunday, March 16, 2014

Second Sunday of Lent - March 16, 2014

This Sunday we welcome Bishop William Waltersheid as he comes to our parish to confirm our 78 young men and women in the Sacrament of Confirmation. We pray for our young people as they are strengthened by the Holy Spirit to be true followers of Jesus Christ. We know it is not easy today to be a Catholic. It is not easy to listen to the voice of God in our lives.
In our Gospel today we hear how Jesus was transfigured before his apostles. But it was the voice of God who announced: "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him." This clear voice of God struck fear in the apostles. Perhaps part of the fear was the realization that Christ's divinity demands more than our respect. It demands our response. Knowing that Jesus is God is only part one. We are also called to follow him, by heeding his teachings and imitating his example. May our young people begin confirmed also learn this valuable lesson.
Lent is a special time to examine just how well we are "listening" to Jesus. May we respond wholeheartedly to God's command to listen to his Son!