Lord it is good that we are here
“If, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, how much more, once reconciled, will we be saved by his life” (Romans 5:10)
The theme for Lent this year is “Lord, it is good that we are here” (Matthew 17:4). This verse, from the gospel according to Matthew, were the words Peter could muster when he was so stunned by Jesus’ Transfiguration. Today the same words might well make our stomach churn. The current pandemic may continue to hinder our ability to celebrate Mass in person. Online Masses and other Lenten liturgies could be on the horizon. In anticipation of such disappointments, how do we convince ourselves “it is good to be here”, or for that matter, anywhere else?
Dazzled by Jesus’ glory on Mount Tabor, Peter was far from ready to sacrifice for the Lord’s love. In fact, the Father was quick to remind him, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.” Likewise, we Catholics are meant to undergo such tests of love. This Lenten period could not be more timely for undergoing for such tests. No matter where we end up observing Lent this year, we must live out the Lenten spirit and abide with the teachings of the Church. We must repent, continue to pray, fast, meditate, abstain, give alms and help the vulnerable.
Be transformed is the sub-theme of the First Lenten Week. St. Paul issued this reminder: “Do not conform to yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Admittedly, what is happening around us hardly offers such optimism. When troubled by uncertainties and difficulties on all fronts, it is only normal to be worried, anxious and desperate! Heed St. Paul’s word! We Catholics must not conform ourselves to this age! “Do not be afraid, just have faith” (Mark 5:36). Let’s not indulge in such worries. Perhaps we have been turning our back on God too long.
The Lenten period is a time to repent. “The kingdom is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel”(Matthew 1:15). Ostensibly, the word “repent” suggests a change in behaviour. However, Jesus Christ demands much more that. He wants his followers to be transformed, a radical change of being at a fundamental level.
Be transformed, the sub-theme of the first week of Lent this year, is an apt invitation to us to reflect. How have we fared so far, especially amidst this pandemic? Have I been a Catholic in name only, or a lapsed Catholic as Pope Francis once lamented? Going to Mass on Sunday, supporting the offertory or praying occasionally are our duties! “We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we are obliged to do” (Luke 17:10).
Be transformed indeed requires a lot more. To begin with, start reading the Holy Scriptures regularly in addition to doing so at leisure. Proclaim the Good News of God. Bear witness to the gospel. Be a practicing Catholic!
We cannot be transformed without the grace of God. We simply cannot do anything without the grace of God! Abandon the delusion that we can do it alone. “Ask and it will be given to you” (Matthew 7:7). The Father is always there for us. Break this habit and be transformed radically. God will certainly lift us from our present temporal plights, whatever they may be.
Regardless where and how we observe Lent this year, let’s prepare ourselves properly to remember the Passion of Jesus Christ and celebrate the his resurrection in glory.
Lenten Campaign Organising Committee, 2021
