Intermediate Session
Genesis 12:1-4
Matthew 17:1-9
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Lord God,
just as Jesus was transfigured before his disciples,
help us to be transformed this Lent.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
On this Second Sunday of Lent we listen to God’s call to transform our lives. To begin today’s session, provide black construction paper, white tissue paper, glue and scissors for each child. Have the children cut a cross out of black construction paper. Then have them take the white tissue paper and cut twenty wavy round circle flower shapes. Explain that every time they make a sacrifice or do a good deed during lent, they can add a white flower to the cross. Invite the children to attach one of the white flowers (pinch together bottom center of circle and glue) to the cross for coming to today’s session. Discuss:
- What does the cross symbolize?
- What do the flowers symbolize?
- How does the season of Lent help us to change and grow closer to God?
Allow time for discussion. During the season of Lent we are called to change and grow closer to God. We remember the new life of Christ given to us through baptism.
Listening to the Word of God
In the Old Testament reading, listen to God call Abraham.
Read Genesis 12:1-4.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- How does the Lord call Abraham?
- What does Abraham do?
- What does God promise Abraham and his descendents?
In the Gospel reading listen to how Jesus is transformed.
Read Matthew 17:1-9.
Allow for silence.
- How is Jesus transformed on the mountaintop?
- Who appears to Jesus and the disciples?
- What does the voice of God say?
- What do the disciples do when they hear the voice of God?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings using the Catechist Background section.
In the Old Testament reading today we hear the story of Abraham’s call. God calls Abraham to a relationship of love and faithfulness. Abraham listens and obeys God’s call. In today’s passage, Abraham is called to a life lived in covenanted relationship with the Lord. The promise of the Lord is that he will bless Abraham and his descendants for eternity.
The scene from today’s Gospel is a mountaintop where Jesus is brilliantly transformed before his disciples. The transfiguration of Jesus reveals Jesus’ divinity. The dazzling image of Jesus on the mountaintop gives the disciples a glimpse of the promised glory that awaits all those who share in the life of Christ. Sharing in Christ’s life includes sharing in his suffering. The brilliant vision of Jesus transfigured gives the disciples encouragement to face the struggles that lie ahead.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- How do you listen to and obey God?
- When have you experienced a great moment with God?
- How does the transfiguration of Jesus relate to your baptism?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Christ, Our Hope of Glory
As human beings we are drawn to the glory of God. God alone is holy. And yet, humans can participate in the holiness of God. The path to holiness in a person’s life begins with wonder and awe. Our reverence for God increases, as we become more aware of the greatness of God our Creator.
In today’s Gospel depicting the transfiguration, the disciples lower their heads in awe of the divine. When they hear the voice of God they fall forward, hiding their faces. Jesus tells the disciples not to be afraid. Like the first disciples, all Christians are called to listen for God’s voice and respond without fear. When we open our hearts to God’s call, we are transformed by divine grace.
- How do we learn about the greatness of God?
- What does it mean to have reverence for God?
- How does the Church help us to hear God’s voice?
The Gospel in Life
What will you do to fill your cross with flowers during the season of Lent?
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 26
Grade 4, page 253 parish and page 261 school
Grade 5, page 253 parish and page 261 school
Grade 6, page 253 parish and page 261 school
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