Our Journey forward

March 1, 2026 – Second Sunday of Lent

Click here for the readings (https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030126.cfm)

Life, indeed, is a journey. Every day we move from one place to another. From home to work, school to home, one responsibility to the next. Even traffic reminds us of this. When the road is moving, even slowly, we feel okay. But when everything stops for a long time, we become impatient and uncomfortable.

The same is true with life. When life feels stagnant—walay kausaban, walay direksyon—we feel tired, empty, even discouraged. Deep in our hearts, we know that life is meant to move forward. It asks us to take risks, to try new ways, to enter new relationships, new perspectives, and new possibilities, even when the future is uncertain.

This is what our readings today are telling us on this Second Sunday of Lent that “faith is a journey.” And transformation happens when we move forward with God.

Now, let us discern the invitations from our readings this Sunday.

In the first reading from the Bool Genesis, we heard the call of Abram. God told him, “Leave your country, your relatives, and your father’s house, and go to a land that I will show you.” Imagine that. Abram was asked to leave everything familiar. This included his home, his security, his comfort and to go to a place he did not know.

It was a journey full of uncertainty. Yet, God gave him a promise: “I will bless you… and you will be a blessing.” And so Abram went as the Lord directed him.

This is important. Abram did not have all the answers. He only had trust. Because of that trust, he grew in faith. His journey formed him. And in the end, his life became a blessing to many.

Many Filipino families know this journey very well. Parents working far from home. OFWs leaving the country. Students studying in unfamiliar places. Families adjusting to new realities after illness, loss, or financial struggle. Life asks us to move forward even when we are unsure.

From Abram’s story we are reminded that when we walk with God, uncertainty does not mean we are lost. It may be the very path where we grow.

This moves us to the second reading. Paul reminded Timothy that life’s journey and of our faith in Jesus is toward a holy life. Paul said that God has saved us and called us not because of our strength, but because of His grace.

Indeed, there are moments when fear and anxiety come. We doubt ourselves. We feel weak. But St. Paul reminds us not rely only on our own strength. Remember, God gives the grace needed for the journey. And our transformation is not our work alone. It is God working within us.

Then the Gospel shows us another important moment in the journey of faith. This is the Transfiguration. Jesus brought Peter, James, and John up a high mountain. Like Abram, they did not know what would happen. But because they trusted Jesus, they followed.

On the mountain, Jesus was transfigured. His appearance changed, revealing His glory. Moses and Elijah appeared, representing the Law and the Prophets. This tells us that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promise. In Him, we find the fullness of life, healing, and freedom.

For the disciples, this was a beautiful moment. So beautiful that Peter said, “Lord, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents.” He wanted to stay there.

And this is something we understand. When life feels peaceful, when prayer is moving, when things are going well, we want to stay in that moment. But faith is not meant to stay on the mountain.

Sometimes we also become spiritually stagnant. We are content with routine devotion but avoid deeper conversion. We attend Mass but do not forgive. We pray but do not change our habits. We keep our faith comfortable but do not allow it to challenge our lives.

That is why the voice of the Father was heard: “This is my beloved Son… listen to Him.” Not just admire Him. Not just feel good about Him. But to “Listen and follow.”

Then something very touching happened. The disciples were afraid, but the Gospel says, “Jesus came and touched them.” This is our comfort. When we are afraid of change, afraid of the future, afraid of the sacrifices Lent asks from us, the Lord comes close. He does not push us harshly. He strengthens us gently.

After that, they came down the mountain. Because the journey continues. The experience of God’s presence is not for escape. It is meant to transform how we live in our homes, workplaces, schools, and communities.

From all of these, there are three invitations for us today.

First, make Lent a journey of real transformation, not just yearly ritual. Seek the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Practice fasting and abstinence with purpose. Ask yourself, “What part of my life needs to move forward?”

Second, be more attentive to God’s presence. He is present in this Eucharist, but also in ordinary moments, in our family conversations, daily work, and silent struggles. Give time for silence and personal prayer so that you become more familiar with His voice.

Third, listen to Jesus. Read the Gospel. Reflect on His words. If possible, attend recollections or retreats. Let His teachings guide your decisions, your attitudes, and your relationships.

Lent reminds us that faith is not about staying where we are. It is about becoming who God is calling us to be. And as we continue this journey, may our lives also become a blessing to others. Because when we allow God to transform us, we ourselves become His gift to our families, and to everyone we meet. Hinaut pa.