Second Sunday of Lent (3/5/2023)

Write an expository homily for the Second Sunday of Lent using these scripture passages: Gn 12:14a; Ps 33:4-5,18-19,20,22; 2 Tm 1:8b-10; Mt 17:1-9; while cross-referencing the Fathers of the Church, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and the writings of recent popes throughout.

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

As we continue our Lenten journey, the readings for today's Mass invite us to reflect on the importance of faith and trust in God. We are reminded that God is always with us, guiding us on our journey and calling us to deeper faith.

In the first reading, we hear about Abram (later known as Abraham) and how he had to trust in God's plan for his life. Abram was called by God to leave his homeland and go to a new land that God would show him. This was a daunting task, but Abram had faith in God and was willing to follow His plan.

Similarly, in our own lives, we are called to have faith and trust in God's plan for us. This can be challenging, especially when we are faced with difficulties and uncertainties. But we must remember that God is always with us, guiding us and helping us to navigate the challenges of life.

In the Gospel reading, we hear about the Transfiguration of Jesus. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain, and there He is transfigured before them. His face shines like the sun, and His clothes become dazzling white. This is a powerful moment of revelation, where the disciples are given a glimpse of Jesus' divine glory.

The Transfiguration reminds us that Jesus is not just a great teacher or prophet, but He is also the Son of God. It strengthens our faith and gives us hope, knowing that Jesus is with us, leading us towards our ultimate goal of eternal life with God.

St. John Chrysostom, one of the Fathers of the Church, taught that "faith is the foundation of all good things." Our faith in God is what gives us strength, hope, and courage to face the challenges of life. It helps us to trust in God's plan for us and to follow His will.

In the second reading, St. Paul reminds us that God has saved us and called us to a holy life. He tells us that we have nothing to fear because God's grace is with us. This is a powerful message of hope, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that "faith is a supernatural gift from God" (CCC 153). It is not something that we can earn or achieve on our own. Rather, it is a gift that we receive through our relationship with God. We must cultivate our faith through prayer, sacraments, and a life of service to others.

As we continue our Lenten journey, let us pray for the grace to deepen our faith and trust in God. Let us remember that He is always with us, guiding us and calling us to a life of holiness. May we have the courage to follow His plan for us, just as Abram did so many years ago. And may the Transfiguration of Jesus inspire us to trust in His divine love and mercy.

Write a Haiku on these Scriptures.

From dust we were made
Original sin's burden
Grace redeems us all

On the mountaintop
Jesus shines with divine light
Showing us the way

Write a Limerick on these Scriptures

In Eden, a choice was made
Adam and Eve disobeyed
But Christ's sacrifice
Paid sin's hefty price
Now with God, we can be remade.

On the mountain, Jesus shone bright
With Peter, James, John, in His sight
His glory revealed
Our faith now unsealed
Transfigured, Christ's love takes flight.

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