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 Br. John R. Barker, OFM
The relationship between Abraham and God begins with the promise of descendants. The son born of the barren Sarah is apparent proof of God’s trustworthiness. Now the order to sacrifice that son puts Abraham in a seemingly impossible position. If he disobeys God, the relationship is over. If he obeys, he puts to death the sign of God’s trustworthiness, which would also effectively kill the relationship. Abraham is famously stoic in this scene, and we have no idea what he is thinking, but his actions imply an incomprehensible trust in God in the face of this dilemma. Concentrating on the ethically problematic aspects of the story might lead one to miss what most ancient readers were able to appreciate, which is the profound trust, not just obedience, that Abraham manifests by his willingness to sacrifice Isaac.
The second reading also treats of the sacrifice of a son. Paul has been assuring his Roman audience that they are destined for glory as God’s adopted children in Christ (8:14–22). In fact, God’s benevolent providence is such that everything can be used to bring about this divine end; God’s purpose will not be thwarted (8:28). Because of this, there is nothing to fear. Paul drives this point home with the example of Jesus. The God who went to such great lengths for us as to allow the only-begotten Son to be sacrificed will surely not abandon us; the death of Christ is a sure sign of God’s good intentions for those who love. Only those who refuse to accept their inheritance can fail to receive it.
The transfiguration of Jesus takes place six days after he announced to his disciples that “the Son of Man must suffer greatly . . . and be killed and rise after three days” (8:31). The experience on the mountain thus points to the future by displaying the glory that Jesus already possesses as God’s Son. Although Jesus must suffer and die, his glorification is assured. Moses and Elijah, both of whom received a revelation of divine glory on a “high mountain” (Exodus 34:5–9; 1 Kings 19:11–13), represent the law and the prophets, both of which have prepared the way for the Messiah. The identity and mission of Christ are confirmed by both God and the Scriptures.