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Scripture Study
Second Sunday of Lent – Cycle C

Opening prayer

Genesis 15:5-12,17-18 (Ps 27:1,7-9,13-14) Philippians 3:20—4:1 Luke 9:28b-36

Overview of the Gospel:

• In this Sunday’s Gospel Jesus, having just made his first prediction of his Passion (Luke 9:22),

takes three of his Apostles (Peter, John, and James) up to Mt. Tabor to pray. Jesus often

prays at momentous times in his life (see Luke 6:12; 9:18; 11:1; 22:41; 23:46), and these

same three Apostles are often present at crucial times (see Luke 5:37; 14:33).

• During Jesus’ prayer, he is transfigured so that his divine glory (usually veiled by his human

flesh) is revealed, in a limited way, to these three Apostles. Their experience recalls the

experience of Israel at another mountain (Sinai) where in a similar way God’s glory was seen

and his voice heard (see Exodus 20:18-21 and Deuteronomy 5:24).

• The presence of Moses and Elijah represent, respectively, the Jewish Law and Prophets

whose voices Israel had always been urged to heed. Jesus, who is the fulfillment of the Law

and the Prophets, is God’s chosen Son; God’s voice tells us to “listen to him” (verses 35-36).

Questions:

• In the First Reading, why was Abram (later renamed Abraham by God) doubtful of God’s

promises? Ultimately, upon what did Abram place his trust that God would fulfill the promises

that he had made to make of Abram a great nation with innumerable descendents?

• Why would Jesus take these three disciples to witness this event? How is this related to: (a)

Peter’s confession (verses 18-20)? (b) Jesus’ prophecy (verse 22)? (c) The preceding saying

(verse 27)? (d) The radiant face of Moses (Exodus 34:29-30)?

• Why is this event misunderstood by Peter (verse 33)? Underscored by God (verses 34-35)?

• When have you experienced God in an unusual manner? What happened?

• When it comes to listening to Jesus, how hard of hearing are you?

• What do you do to obey the command of the Father to obey his Son?

Catechism of the Catholic Church: §§ 554-56, 697, 2600

Closing prayer

The saints are like the stars. In his providence Christ conceals them in a hidden place that they may

not shine before others when they might wish to do so. Yet they are always ready to exchange the

quiet of contemplation for the works of mercy as soon as they perceive in their heart the invitation of

Christ. -St. Anthony of Padua

Remember to read and meditate on the daily Mass readings!

Sunday Scripture Study for Catholics

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