Second Sunday of Lent – Year B
March 12, 2006

Intermediate Session
Genesis 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18
Mark 9:2-10

Opening Prayer

Let us pray.
O God,
“Let my prayer be counted as incense before you,
and the lifting of my hands as an evening sacrifice.”
Psalm 141:2


Opening Life Reflection

The theme for today is Sacrifice. To begin, provide markers and a blank envelope for each child. Explain to the children that their envelope can be used to help them share God’s love with others this Lent. Suggest the following two options: 1. The children can take money that would be spent on something that they want and put that money in their envelope during the weeks of Lent. Then the money can be given to a charity. 2. The children can write a special prayer for someone in need each week of Lent. The prayers can be written on small sheets of notepaper and placed in their envelopes each week. Invite the children to decorate their envelopes with markers and write “My Lenten Offering” on the front. Discuss:

• How can you share God’s love with others?
• What can you offer to God this Lent?
• Why is prayer important?

Allow time for discussion. During the season of Lent, we are reminded to pray, to give to those in need, and to give up the things that keep us from sharing God’s love.

Listening to the Word of God
In the Old Testament reading today listen to what happens when Abraham puts his faith in God.

Read Genesis 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters

• What does God ask Abraham to do?
• How does Abraham put his faith in God?
• How does God bless Abraham?

In the gospel today listen to find out what happens to Jesus on the mountaintop.

Read Mark 9:2-10.
Allow for silence.

• Who does Jesus take up the mountain with him?
• What happens to Jesus on the mountaintop?
• What does Peter say to Jesus?

Scripture Background

Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings using the Catechist Background section.

In the Old Testament reading today Abraham is called to make an extreme sacrifice for God. God’s request for Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac is a test. Abraham’s response to God’s call is “Here I am.”
But God intervenes and prevents Isaac’s death. Because of Abraham’s obedience, God promises that Isaac will bring numerous descendants to Abraham. This passage shows Abraham’s great trust in God, even in a terrifying situation. Because of Abraham’s faith, the blessings of the covenant are renewed.

Today’s gospel brings us high upon a mountaintop where Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John. Jesus becomes radiant with light. Moses and Elijah appear with Jesus. The disciples are both fascinated and frightened as they witness the glorification of Jesus. Peter wants the awesome moment to last forever. From a cloud comes the voice of God, claiming Jesus as Son and commanding the disciples to listen to him. Jesus’ disciples are given a vision of light and hope. This passage sheds light on Jesus’ divinity and the great event to come—Jesus’ victory over death.

Questions for Deeper Reflection
• What does the story of Abraham teach about faith?
• When have you wanted a moment to last forever?
• How can you let Jesus’ love shine through your actions?

[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]

Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Sacrifice
Abraham’s total trust in God is a model for us. The sacrifice of Abraham, his willingness to sacrifice his son, is perfectly realized in Jesus. Jesus freely offers himself to God in order to save us from our sins and renew our covenant with God. Throughout the Old and New Testaments, the idea of sacrifice is important. The sacrifice of Jesus is the greatest sacrifice.

The celebration of the Eucharist makes present the once and for all sacrifice of Christ. In the Eucharist we celebrate the memorial of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and his resurrection, become real and present in the celebration of Eucharist. The Eucharist is also the sacrifice of the Church. Through the celebration of the Eucharist, we offer our lives to God through Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

• What is the greatest sacrifice?
• Why did Jesus suffer and die for us?
• What happens when we celebrate Eucharist?

Sacrament Connection
The celebration of the Eucharist makes present the once and for all sacrifice of Christ. In the Eucharist we celebrate the memorial of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and his resurrection, become real and present in the celebration of Eucharist.

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 26
Grade 4, p. 253
Grade 5, p. 253
Grade 6, p. 253

Connecting to Faith First®
At Home Family Guide, theme 26
Grade 4, p. 292
Grade 5, p. 292
Grade 6, p. 292

The Gospel in Life
How will you make an offering to God this week?