We have a tendency to lose sight of the joys and glories as we live through the ordinary moments
Sometimes, we unconsciously create patterns or habits in our lives. These patterns and habits affect how we act and what we think, but we are not so aware of them. Other habits are chosen and conscious, so we are more aware of them and direct them to the right place. The patterns of Lent help us become conscious of our habits and act accordingly.
The second weekend of Lent offers us the same Gospel every year. Jesus takes Peter, James and John up the mountain to be transfigured in their sight. Moses and Elijah appear with Jesus, representing the law and the prophets. For most of us, an unconscious pattern about Lent has been built up in our brains. We begin with the temptations of Jesus in the desert and then move on to the transfiguration. The darkness and the glory of the path of Jesus’ life are revealed in these two events. Notice that after both of these events, Jesus continues to walk the journey of daily life and conscious living.
This is a time of remembrance and renewal that ought to lead to conversion and a more holy life. During this special time of year, we are asked to consciously form habits that will last beyond Easter Sunday. This week, we focus on the joyous and exuberant moments of discipleship, when we can count on God’s promises because we have experienced them throughout our lives. We sometimes lose sight of those joys and glories as we live through ordinary moments. Worry and cynicism become habits rather than joy and hope.
When Peter witnessed Jesus’ transfiguration, he wanted to stay in that place and not lose the moment. Jesus would not allow that to happen and ordered them all to go back down the mountain to Jerusalem, the place of His suffering, death and resurrection. How many times have we experienced the joy of having personal encounters with Jesus and, with the grace of God, want to hold onto them? As soon as the ordinary, daily routine of life hits us, we give in to living an unconscious and undirected life.
During the season of repentance, what might each of us do to remember the glorious encounters that we have had with Jesus and with the grace of God? How can we become conscious of the habits we have formed that numb us to the reality of our call to live an ordinary life with grace and hope? The suggestion that we fast during Lent is not magical, but the emptiness allows us to begin to feel again.
Fast from the things and actions that redirect your attention. Come down from the mountain and out of the valley and consciously live your ordinary life. How can we begin to break the habits that keep us from being on the journey daily?
Remember, renew and confess.
Father Donald Wester is retired and serves as lecturer of homiletics at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary.
