Scripture Study for
Second Sunday of Lent
Genesis 22:1–2, 9a, 10–13, 15–18 / Psalm 116:9 / Romans 8:31b–34 / Mark 9:2–10
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Understanding the Word
By Dianne Bergant, C.S.A.
The story known as “The Sacrifice of Isaac” might be better called “The Testing of Abraham.” The story itself states; “God put Abraham to the test.” Furthermore, Isaac is never really sacrificed. Abraham, the “father of a multitude” (see Genesis 7:15), is being put to the test. From a human point of view, Abraham’s response to God’s demand is terrifying, yet demonstrates his unquestioned obedience. Abraham relinquishes his natural claim on the child of promise, and he is blessed with a promise of more children than he can count. God is not outdone in generosity.
Paul wonders who will bring a charge against God’s chosen ones, who will condemn them, and who will justify them. He identifies God as this judge. Paul argues that if the sovereign God is on our side, then regardless of what can be mustered against us, it is nothing in comparison to God’s power. If God is willing to sacrifice a beloved Son for our sake, it is impossible that God would deny us whatever other trivial things we might need. Finally, if Jesus has willingly died for us, he would certainly not turn around and condemn us. Besides, he is now interceding for us.
The transfiguration of Jesus knits together traditions of Israel’s past, insights into Jesus’ own identity, and a glimpse into eschatological fulfillment. Moses and Elijah represent the basis of Israel’s tradition, the law and the prophets respectively. Furthermore, both prefigure the prophetic dimension of the messianic era. The voice from the cloud identifies Jesus as the beloved Son, reminiscent of Isaac, who was also a beloved son. The connection with Isaac and Jesus suggests that the voice is referring to Jesus’ teaching about his death. It may be that the Transfiguration was intended to prepare the inner circle of disciples for Jesus’ unthinkable suffering and death in order to strengthen them in advance.