Listen to Him

Readings for Saturday, February 19:
Hebrews 11:1-7
Psalm 145:2-5,10-11
Mark 9:2-13

It is interesting to hear on this quiet Saturday morning the reading of the Transfiguration of Christ. I was actually struck by this fact because we typically celebrate the feast of the Transfiguration with lots of music and ceremony. But today, one this simple Saturday morning, we hear the words of Saint Mark speaking again that great mystery. As I listened again to that gospel passage we have heard numerous times I was struck by the voice of the Father: This is my Beloved Son. Listen to Him." Eight simple words and yet the message is so deep. This is emphasized in Saint Matthew's gospel in that the Father cuts off Saint Peter, who is still speaking about the tents, and utters these words (Mt 17:5). With that extra little detail we begin to grasp the necessity for each of us to spend time simply sitting with the Lord, listening to Him speak to our hearts. If we are too busy with work, even good works, we miss this blessed opportunity.

To reflect a bit, recall that this reading and line of 'Listen to Him' are read on a Saturday, the day on which we traditionally honor the Blessed Virgin Mary, who at the wedding at Cana spoke the words to the servants, "Do whatever He tells you" (Jn 2:5). The question then is 'How can we do what He tells us if we do not take the time to listen?' Blessed indeed would we be if only we spent some quiet time before the Lord listening to the words He seeks to speak to our hearts. 

Lord Jesus, speak to us and give us the grace to hear.