Rise and Do Not Be Afraid: The Transfiguration, Zeal, and Sloth | Fr. Will Rooney | 2nd Sunday of Lent

Episode Overview

On the Second Sunday of Lent, Fr. Will reflects on the Transfiguration: why Jesus reveals His glory to Peter, James, and John—and how that vision strengthens the disciples against the coming scandal of the Cross. Connecting the Gospel to the Lenten series on the deadly sins, this homily explores sloth (acedia) as “sorrow at spiritual joy,” and calls us to renewed zeal: living our mission, investing in prayer, and loving those closest to us with diligence.

Key Takeaways

  • The Transfiguration strengthens hope: Jesus shows both who He is and what we are made for.
  • Jesus prepares the disciples “against the scandal of the Cross.”
  • Sloth (acedia) is not merely laziness—it’s sorrow at spiritual joy and forgetfulness of our mission.
  • Zeal is the opposite of sloth: remembering our vocation and investing in love of God and neighbor.
  • Holiness begins “here”: in our homes, our parish, and the relationships God has entrusted to us.

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