Sunday, March 16, is the Second Sunday of Lent. Mass readings: Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18; Psalm 27:1, 7-8, 8-9, 13-14; Philippians 3:17-4:1 or Philippians 3:20-4:1; Luke 9:28b-36.

The event of the Transfiguration recounted in today’s Gospel describes the pattern of the Christian life, which is the Paschal mystery. We are always dying and rising with Christ in repeated cycles as we journey to an eternal Easter (2 Corinthians 4:10). This passage shows the pattern of the cross in the climb to the glory of the mountaintop; then it is back down the mountain again, only to climb another one (Golgotha) and through it find another glory (Easter Sunday).

“Jesus took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray.”

We often pass over the fact that they had to climb the mountain — no easy task. Anyone who has been to Mt. Tabor knows just what a high mountain it is. The climb to the top is almost 2,000 steep feet. Here is a symbol of the cross and of struggle. The climb was up the rough side of the mountain; it was exhausting and difficult, testing their strength.

This climb relates to life. We have often had to climb, to endure, to have our strength tested. Perhaps it was the climb of earning a college degree. Maybe it was the climb of raising children or building a career. What do you have that you really value that did not come at the price of a steep climb, of effort, of struggle?

“While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white. … Peter, James and John saw his glory. … Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, it is good that we are here.’”

All the climbing was worth it: The Lord gives them a glimpse of glory. They get to see the glory that Jesus has always had with the Father. He is dazzlingly bright. What about our crosses now? If we have carried our crosses in faith, they have made us stronger and more confident. Some of us have discovered gifts, abilities and endurance we never knew we had.

“[Peter said] ‘Let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ But he did not know what he was saying.”

Notice that although Peter wants to stay, Jesus is clear: They must go down the mountain and then walk a very dark valley to another hill, Golgotha. For now, the pattern must repeat. The cross has led to glory, but more crosses are needed before final glory

Yes, this is the pattern of our life: There are difficult days ahead for Jesus and the apostles, but the crosses lead to a final and lasting glory. This is our life, too; the Paschal mystery is the pattern and rhythm of our life.