Many years ago, I had an amazing opportunity to spend a semester in Israel as part of my seminary formation.  My eyes were opened to the wonders of our faith as I had the opportunity to walk the way of the cross, to swim in the Sea of Galilee, to walk the road to Emmaus, and to climb to the top of Mt. Tabor, the setting of this weekend’s Gospel.  The ability to see the sights that hold such great importance to our faith brought the stories of our scriptures to life.  It was an opportunity to journey with God on a new and exciting venture.
 
The theme of journeying with God plays out in our scripture readings this weekend.  In our first reading, God invites Abraham to begin a journey that would lead to a more profound relationship between God and humanity.   God led Abraham to the top of a mountain where Abraham came to understand how God has always been faithful.  He was also able to see to where his journey would lead and, on that mountain, Abraham found the courage to continue to journey with God.   
 
We see a similar story unfold in our Gospel where Jesus takes a few of his closest friends to the top of the mountain where they are able to see clearly and ultimately, come to deepen their understanding of Jesus.  In their very presence, Jesus was transfigured, and they came to understand that God was leading them forward on a path that would change the face of the world. 
 
This Lenten season is also a time for us to journey with God, to slow down and to allow God to lead us forward.  We may not be led to the top of a mountain, but God is inviting each of us to continue to journey forward in faith, taking the time to discover the depth of God’s love. No matter where we find ourselves, Jesus is with us, inviting us to trust, to believe, and continue to walk with him.
 
May God bless you and your loved ones today, tomorrow, and forever more.
 
+Harry