Second Sunday of Lent “Rise and do not be afraid”

(Matthew 17:1–9)

The Gospel for the Second Sunday of Lent brings us to the mountain of the Transfiguration. Jesus invites Peter, James, and John to accompany Him, and there, before their eyes, His glory is revealed. His face shines like the sun, His clothes become dazzling white, and the voice of the Father breaks through the cloud: “This is my beloved Son… listen to Him.” Overwhelmed by the majesty of God, the disciples fall to the ground in fear.

I understand that feeling. Life can be overwhelming. Following Jesus can sometimes intensify that sense of weight, because discipleship calls us to a higher way of living. When Jesus says, “Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48), it can feel like an impossible task. None of us can walk this path alone. We need one another — a community of believers who pray with us, encourage us, and help us rise when we stumble.

What overwhelms me even more is the truth that I, too, am a beloved child of God. Jesus is always near, even when I fail to notice. When I open my eyes, ears, and heart, I recognize His presence in moments of grace, forgiveness, and unexpected strength. I have tasted His unconditional love and mercy. I have been renewed by His compassion more times than I can count.

That Jesus — knowing my weakness, my sin, my brokenness — still desires a deeper, more intimate relationship with me… that is overwhelming. God’s love is beyond my understanding, yet it is always offered, always faithful.

In the Gospel, after the disciples fall in fear, Jesus comes to them, touches them, and says: “Rise, and do not be afraid.”

I hear Him speaking those same words to us today: Rise from your discouragement. Rise from your sins. Rise from whatever weighs you down. I am with you. Move forward, and do not be afraid.

This Lent, may we listen to the voice of the Father, trust the presence of the Son, and walk together as a community of hope.