There is a sense in today’s readings of going from the unknown and the unfamiliar to the splendour of fulfilment. As we reflect on the readings, we can place ourselves in the spirit of the Responsorial Psalm: “Lord, let your mercy be upon us as we place all our trust in you. “

Abram is asked to leave his homeland and his family and go where the Lord leads him and in following this invitation, he will be the founder of a great nation and be a blessing to his people. The second reading tells us that we are called to suffer with Jesus for the sake of the gospel but His power will be with us and death will be abolished and life and immortality will be the reward.

Then comes the gospel of the Transfiguration which, perhaps, seems a little out of place when we have only just entered Lent. It speaks of light and glory with Jesus shining in dazzling splendour. The three disciples saw this as a moment of adoration and awe but these sentiments changed to fear when they heard the voice from heaven: “This is my Son, the beloved, listen to Him.”

Jesus touches them and tells them not to be afraid. Now, they see only Him whom they know and love.

There is so much power in that word: touch. Yet, in itself, it is such a gentle movement. The disciples are comforted; they have passed from the unknown to the familiar; they can say with the psalmist: “We place all our trust in you.”

This theme of trust can be ours as we journey through Lent. We can follow in the steps of Jesus as He moves towards Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the glory of the Resurrection.