Homily – Sunday, 1 March 2026

Second Sunday of Lent
Readings: Genesis 12:1–4a | 2 Timothy 1:8b–10 | Matthew 17:1–9

Introduction

My dear friend,

Today, on this Second Sunday of Lent, God is inviting you to move.

Not physically — but spiritually.

Lent is not meant to leave you where you are. It is a journey. And today’s readings are about stepping out, going up, and seeing clearly.

This message is for you.

Life Story

A man once bought a treadmill to “change his life.”

For the first week, he used it daily.
Second week — three times.
Third week — it became the most expensive clothes hanger in the house.

Sometimes we love the idea of change… but not the effort of it.

And today, God speaks about real change — the kind that requires movement.

The Word

Genesis 12:1–4a

God tells Abram:

“Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.”

Notice — God does not give Abram a map.
He gives him a promise.

“Go… and I will bless you.”

Abram leaves security, familiarity, and comfort. He moves because he trusts.

Faith always begins with movement.

God may not be asking you to change countries.
But He is asking you to leave something behind — fear, sin, doubt, comfort zones.

2 Timothy 1:8b–10

Paul tells Timothy:

“Bear your share of hardship for the Gospel with the strength that comes from God.”

Following Christ is not always easy. But you are not alone. The strength comes from God.

You are not saved because you are strong.
You are strengthened because you are called.

Matthew 17:1–9 – The Transfiguration

Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain.

There, He is transfigured — His face shines like the sun.

For a moment, they see who He truly is.

Why does Jesus give them this experience?

Because suffering is coming. The Cross is coming.

And before the valley, they need the mountain.

You also need moments of light — reminders of who Christ is — so that when life feels heavy, you remember His glory.

Then the Father says:

“This is my beloved Son… listen to Him.”

Not admire Him.
Not quote Him.
Listen to Him.

Three Practical Lessons for Your Day

1. Be Willing to Move

Ask yourself honestly:
Where is God asking me to step out in faith?

It may be forgiving someone.
It may be deepening your prayer life.
It may be letting go of something that feels safe but keeps you stagnant.

Movement brings blessing.

2. Climb the Mountain Daily

The mountain today can be 10 minutes of quiet prayer.

Switch off the noise.
Open Scripture.
Sit with Jesus.

If you never climb the mountain, you will forget His light.

3. Listen — Don’t Just Talk

In prayer, speak — yes.
But also listen.

Before making a decision today, pause and ask:
“Lord, what are You saying?”

Listening changes direction.

Inspirational Quote

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”

Conclusion

My friend,

Lent is your journey from comfort to calling, from fear to faith, from confusion to clarity.

God is saying to you:

Go.
Climb.
Listen.

Do not stay where you are spiritually.

The same God who called Abram, strengthened Timothy, and revealed His glory on the mountain is guiding you right now.

Trust Him enough to move.

Prayer

Lord God,

You call me beyond what is familiar.
You invite me into deeper faith.

Give me courage like Abram to step out.
Give me strength like Timothy to endure.
Give me eyes like the apostles to see Your glory.

When I feel afraid to move, remind me of Your promise.
When I feel tired, renew my strength.
When I feel confused, teach me to listen.

This Lent, take me higher.
Transform my heart.
Lead me where You want me to go.

I trust You, Lord.
I will follow.

Amen.