Discussion Questions

First Reading

Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18

F1. In this reading God Promised Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars. Will Abraham cling to this promise as he raises the knife to kill his son (Gen 22:9)? Where do you fall on the continuum where blind trust is required of you, (1 being low and 10 high)?

F2. God asks Abraham to sacrifice a heifer, she-goat ram, turtledove and pigeon. Do you think God is preparing Abraham to offer the Son Isaac, whom he loves most, as a sacrifice (Gen 22:1ff)? Is God the Father willing to let his own beloved son die to show how far God will go for humankind? In the end do you think Isaac is willing to be sacrificed? Is Jesus willing to give his life (in union with the Father’s willingness to give everything, even his son) to show how much God loves humankind?

Second Reading

Philippians 3:17-4:1 or 3:20-4:1

S1. In his Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander, Thomas Merton says “There is no way of telling people that they are all walking around shining like the sun.” Discuss this idea as it relates to this statement from this reading: “he will change our lowly body to conform with his glorified body.

S2. Is your mind occupied with earthly things? Who or what helps you in your struggle toward your “citizenship in heaven”?

Gospel

Luke 9:28b-36

G1. In the blinding light did Peter know what he was saying? Think of some times that you have seen the divine, not in a transfiguration, but in the ordinary. Please share your experiences with others.

G2. Pope Francis reflected on the Transfiguration with pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square on the second Sunday in Lent. What does he say is the important message of the Transfiguration? 

That feeling of Peter that “it is well that we are here” must not become spiritual laziness. We cannot remain on the mountain and enjoy the bliss of this encounter on our own. Jesus himself brings us back to the valley, among our brothers and sisters and into daily life. We must beware of spiritual laziness: we are fine, with our prayers and liturgies, and this is enough for us. No! Going up the mountain does not mean forgetting reality; praying never means avoiding the difficulties of life; the light of faith is not meant to provide beautiful spiritual feelings. No, this is not Jesus’ message. We are called to experience the encounter with Christ so that, enlightened by his light, we might take it and make it shine everywhere. Igniting little lights in people’s hearts; being little lamps of the Gospel that bear a bit of love and hope: this is the mission of a Christian.

Igniting Little Lights
Angelus 2/2/2021

Anne Osdieck

**From Saint Louis University