It's Good To Be Here

- 3rd Sunday of Lent -

By Fr. Patrick O'Dea

The scripture readings for the Second Sunday of Lent offer great spiritual insight for the Lenten season. For myself, I was particularly drawn to the Gospel of
Mark, on the event of the Transfiguration, in which Jesus invites two of his apostles to the mountain for an experience they would never forget (Mark 9: 2-10).

Peter and James were indeed given a special honour and privilege to experience Jesus in his glory; it so moved Peter that he was inspired to remark, "Lord, it is good for us to be here." One can only imagine the joy on Peter's face when he uttered that phrase!

Perhaps these words of Peter might find a spiritual home in our hearts during this time of Lent as we consider the many ways in which God has privileged us
with special moments of grace. Perhaps an experience of a particular liturgy, the love of a devoted spouse, the support of a faith community, the inspiration of a sick or dying person, the gift of a close friend, the awe of a newborn child, the freshness of a new day, or a special moment of prayer. In whatever experience you deem to be a moment of grace, I trust Peter’s words might resonate with your own, “Lord, it is good….”

Peter likely did not expect much to happen when he climbed the hill that day with Jesus. However, Jesus always invites us to new experiences. We might wish to consider that no day, spent with the Lord, is without its potential to see God's goodness at work, in the world, in nature, in our lives, and in the lives of others.

May these days of Lent continue to be life-giving.

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