This Sunday our gospel is about the Transfiguration, when Jesus appeared in all his divine glory to Peter, James and John. As we continue with what might feel like the uphill climb of our Lenten penance, I want to focus on the very first line of this Sunday’s reading: “Jesus took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray” (Lk 9:28).
I love when students ask me odd questions, because it keeps me on my toes. If you haven’t heard about this, don’t worry. Neither had I, until last week.
Sometime last year there was a kerfuffle about possibly updating the translation of the Lord’s Prayer to change the petition to “lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” Some suggested that it was wrong to think that God would ever lead us into temptation. But our gospel reading this Sunday tells a different story.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, and it’s never too soon — or too late — to begin thinking about our Lenten penance and devotions. Lent is a penitential season, and the Church includes prayer, works of charity, and self-denial under the umbrella of “penance” (see Canon 1249 in the Code of Canon Law). Full observance of Lent therefore includes prayer, fasting, and charity.
Continue reading Be Practical & Specific: Advice for Making the Most of Lent
In last Sunday’s gospel, Jesus told us not to judge others. “Stop judging,” he said, “and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned” (Lk 6:37).
