It is good that we are here
On this Second Sunday in Lent we hear the Gospel story of the Transfiguration of Jesus, with the last lines:
Jesus came and touched them, saying,
“Rise, and do not be afraid.”
And when the disciples raised their eyes,
they saw no one else but Jesus alone
In this moment, as he did throughout his life, Jesus guided and taught his disciples through his actions and his very presence. The story gives us a sense of the enormous power that the apostles felt when in the presence of Jesus.
The power of that presence is what we long for in our lives today and is often what draws people to prayer, scripture study and Eucharistic Adoration. During Lent we have one more faith tradition that brings us close to Jesus – walking the Stations of the Cross.
As with any spiritual practice it helps to be intentional; putting your whole self into the practice and paying attention to every aspect of the prayer experience. Find a parish that offers Stations of the Cross during Lent and allow yourself to participate mindfully. It could become a very powerful experience if you attend the prayer service with a family member or friend and then share your thoughts and feelings afterwards. Talk about to these three components:
Place – Did the place of our prayer have an affect on us?
Posture – Recall your body’s response to this prayer. Did our movements or gestures change the way we experienced this prayer form?
Process – What was in our mind and heart during the prayer? How will this prayer change us?
The apostles were led to the mountain to spend time with Jesus and their experience was one of transformation. As you participate in the Stations of the Cross this Lent you may find your response to be similar to the apostles’, “Lord, it is good that we are here.”