2nd Sunday of Lent - Cycle C

Luke 9:28b-36

“‘Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ But he did not know what he was saying.” (Luke 9:33)

For over 20 years, my family has spent two weeks each June vacationing on the beach in Connecticut. This trip has always been the highlight of my year, both when I was growing up and even now. It's a special time to be together with extended family, many of whom I only see during this vacation. We spend our days relaxing on the beach, reading, chatting, sharing meals, and simply enjoying one another's company.

When the two weeks come to an end, the goodbyes are always emotional, marking the end of a cherished time and the return to the reality of daily responsibilities and chores.

I can relate to Peter in today’s Gospel. In his excitement and maybe confusion, he suggests building tents to try to capture and hold onto the moment. How can I blame Peter? I too often wish I could hold onto joyful moments, even though I know life must move forward.

The deeper truth in Peter’s reaction is that, much like him, we all struggle with letting go of good things. We desire to cling to what is beautiful, but life is often a process of transition and change. Just as the disciples had to come down from the mountain and face the coming trials, so too must we return to our daily lives. I am reminded that we cannot live forever in those moments of divine comfort. Instead, we must store up God’s consolation in our hearts during times of joy, so that when we encounter difficulty, we can draw from that well of comfort and strength. It is in those times of challenge that the experiences of God's closeness become our foundation, helping us to persevere with hope.

Just as Peter did, we too must learn to move forward in faith, holding onto the deeper truth of God’s presence, even when the physical and emotional high has passed. This journey of faith requires both trust and surrender, knowing that God’s plans are bigger than our desire to preserve moments.