LL_Icon

Lifelong Catechesis

Forming Catholic identity across generations
October 13, 2024
Close
Close
Close

Lent

Forty days before the Triduum, the Lenten season disposes Catechumens and the faithful to celebrate the paschal mystery through prayer and penitential practices.

Sunday Readings and Backgrounds

Previous Next

Second Sunday of Lent

Reading I : Genesis 22:1-2, 9, 10-13, 15-18

Because you trusted me, I will bless you greatly.

  • In the story of the sacrifice of Isaac, the sin of disobedience that brought alienation and death is healed by obedience.
  • The Canaanites believed the first born belonged to God.
  • Abraham's test of faith emphasizes the fact that God demands obedience, not sacrifice.

Reading II : Romans 8:31-34

Who can be against us?

  • The reading from Romans presents a parallel to God's demand on Abraham.
  • God does not demand the sacrifice of Abraham's son as a price of the covenant relationship.
  • God does sacrifice the life of his own Son to preserve the covenant relationship with humankind.

Gospel : Mark 9:2-10

He was transfigured before their eyes!

  • The story of Jesus' transfiguration is full of symbolism.
  • The images of cloud and mountain suggest God's appearance at the covenant-making on Mount Sinai.
  • Moses, the major figure in Exodus and Sinai covenant, represents the law, and Elijah, great ninth-century prophet of Israel, represents the prophets.
  • Jesus is the fulfillment of the law and the prophets.