A Note From

Rev. Joe Koyickal

Returning Home Through Trust, Transformation, & Hope

Last Sunday, we reflected on our call to return to the Lord & on the temptations that try to pull us away from God & from our true home. We also heard Pope Leo’s invitation to listen more deeply to God’s Word, to fast so that our hearts can hear Him, & to remember that this Lenten journey is something we walk together, not alone. This Sunday’s readings move us further along this journey of Returning Home to the Father: Renew, Reconcile, & Rejoice.

In the first reading, we see Abraham, following the call of God, steps out in trust, not knowing where the road will lead. Lent invites us to do the same-to leave behind old habits, grudges, & comforts that keep us from God, & to trust that His promise is greater than what we leave behind. What do I need to let go to return home?

In the second reading, St. Paul reminds us that holiness is not something we earn by our own efforts. It is a gift from God. Our prayer, fasting, & acts of charity are ways we open our hearts to God’s transforming grace. God calls us to a new way of seeing, speaking & acting, in love, forgiveness & reconciliation.

In the Gospel, the Transfiguration of Jesus gives us a glimpse of what awaits us. Jesus reveals His glory to the disciples to strengthen them for the journey ahead, especially the suffering of the cross. The Father’s voice says, “This is my beloved Son…listen to Him.” The Transfiguration reminds us that Lent leads to Easter, sacrifice leads to glory, & our journey home leads to joy.

As we continue this Lenten journey, let us renew our hearts through prayer & listening to God’s Word, reconcile with God & one another, & rejoice in the hope that one day we will share in Christ’s glory. Let us walk this road together as a parish family, helping one another toward the joy of Easter & the new life God promises. 

Blessings of Peace and Joy Always! 

Fr. Joe