SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT C
THE CHOSEN
LK 9: 28b-36
MESSAGE
The Transfiguration narrative in Luke’s Gospel contains a subtle but significant difference from the other accounts. While Matthew and Mark recount the Father calling Jesus his “Beloved Son,” Luke identifies him as the “Chosen” Son. This distinction carries profound meaning.
Scholars suggest that the title “Chosen” emphasizes Jesus’ unique mission as the Son of the Father – the Beloved is “chosen” for a mission. The appearance of Moses and Elijah affirms this, as they represent the Law and the Prophets—the foundation of Israel’s faith. In Jesus, these ancient promises find their fulfillment. He stands at the center of salvation history, and his transfigured glory reveals his power to bring life even to the dead. This foreshadows his ultimate mission: to offer eternal life to all who come to him in faith.
The title “Chosen” also reflects Jesus’ own decision and commitment. Not only is he chosen by the Father, but he also chooses to obey, to serve, and to love – the Beloved “chooses” to serve. His mission is not one of reluctant duty but of willing, joyful dedication to those he calls his brothers and sisters. If you are familiar with the acclaimed TV series The Chosen, you may recognize how powerfully this portrayal captures Jesus’ approachability. He is not distant or detached but fully present, sharing in the joys and struggles of his friends and followers.
During this Lenten season, we are invited to see Jesus as the Chosen Son of God—not one who delights in superiority, but one who draws near to us in all our human experiences. He has chosen to love us, to save us, and to walk with us on the path of repentance, forgiveness, and transformation.
REFLECT
Jesus, the Chosen One, has chosen you to be his brother, sister, and friend. Through his love, the Father also chooses you for a life of holiness and peace. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to help us discover that we, too, are chosen—called to live for God and to serve our neighbors, following the example of Jesus.
