Year A: Genesis 12:1–4a; Psalm 33:4–5, 18–19, 20, 22;2 Timothy 1:8–10; Matthew 17:1–9
Year B: Genesis 22:1–2, 9a, 10–13, 15–18; Psalm 116:10, 15, 16–17, 18–19; Romans 8:31b–34, Mark 9:2–10
Year C: Genesis 15:5–12, 17–18; Psalm 27:1, 7–8a, 8b–9, 13–14; Philippians 3:17—4:1; Luke 9:28b–36
In Lent we read stories about Abraham—the description of God’s covenant with him and the story of his willingness to sacrifice his son, Isaac, for example. These stories have undergone a long process of telling and retelling. Many hands have worked over these stories, for theological purposes.
Nevertheless, the stories communicate the common understanding we share about Abraham; that is, his strong faith in God. We marvel at this man’s willingness to trust in God so much that he would undertake a long, difficult journey to seek a land and a heritage promised by God. Though separated by millennia and by different cultures, we are yet the children of Abraham.
In John’s Gospel, Jesus confronts his opponents who claim that inheritance but fail to go beyond paying lip-service to it. Lent is all about renewing our faith in God through Jesus Christ, his Son. May we use our lenten immersion in the stories of faith as opportunities to allow God to strengthen and challenge that faith, as God did for Abraham. May we share our stories of faith with those entering the church this season.
Today’s Action
Visit a local mosque during Lent and ask about the stories and figures we share with Muslims. If there isn’t a mosque nearby, learn about the basics of Islam by clicking here.
Prayer
All-merciful God, worshiped by the People of the Book,
may we imitate our father Abraham in fidelity,
trusting where you would lead us.
Amen.
