Second Sunday of Lent – Year B
March 12, 2006

Junior High Session

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

Opening Prayer

Let us pray.
Loving God, we are called us to follow your way of love during Lent.
Give us the strength to put aside the things that keep us from living in your love.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.

Opening Life Reflection
The main theme for today is Sacrifice. For today’s session provide 2” and 1 1⁄2” nails or small twigs, and thin picture hanging wire, or yarn. Explain to the young people that the season of Lent is a time of sacrifice and growth. Invite each young person to make a cross of nails, or twigs, as a reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice. Take the nails or twigs and lay the two pieces on top of each other. Bind the cross together by tightly wrapping the wire (if using nails) or yarn (if using twigs) around the two pieces. Discuss:

• What does the symbol of the cross remind us of?
• What does the word sacrifice mean to you?
• How can the season of Lent be a time of personal growth?

Allow time for discussion. Jesus freely sacrificed himself to God to save us from our sins. During the season of Lent we ask God to help us make sacrifices that will help us grow in love.

Listening to the Word of God
In the Old Testament reading today listen to find what Abraham is willing to sacrifice for God.

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

Scripture Discussion Starters
• How does Abraham respond to God’s call?
• What does God ask Abraham to do?
• How is Abraham obedient to God?
• How does God bless Abraham?

In the gospel today listen to what happens when Jesus takes Peter and James and John to the mountaintop.

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

• What happens to Jesus on the mountaintop?
• Who appears with Jesus?
• 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. 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.”
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 takes 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. Today’s passage sheds light on Jesus’ divinity and the great event to come, Jesus’ victory over death.

Questions for Deeper Reflection
• When have you had to trust in God in a terrifying situation?
• What areas of your life need transformation or change?
• When have you experienced a moment that you wanted to last forever?

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

Doctrinal Discussion Starter
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. The Eucharist transforms our lives.

• Why is the sacrifice of Jesus the greatest sacrifice?
• What happens when we celebrate Eucharist?
• How can you offer your life to God?

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
Junior High, Mystery of God, chapter 7

Connecting to Faith First®
At Home Family Guide, theme 26
Junior High, Creed and Prayer, p. 323 and chapter 6
Junior High, Liturgy and Morality, p. 323

The Gospel in Life
How can the light of Christ transform the darkness in your life this week?