THEME: “LISTEN, LEAVE, AND TRUST”
by REV. BRIGHT APPIAH
During my pastoral at a village, a woman gave me the chance to advise her daughter on various immoral acts. Upon talking to the lady, she made it known to me that she cannot stop because that is her source of income. I still insisted that she change from that act but the lady stood by her grounds that if she stops will God provide her need?, my final answer to her was, Just Listen, Leave those acts and Trust in God to provide.
On this 2nd Sunday of Lent I would want us to reflect on my last words to this lady, Listen, Leave and Trust. Today’s readings show us three moments where God brings people out of their comfort zone like the lady in the context and into trust. On the mountain, the Father says to the disciples: “Listen.” To Abraham, God says: “Go.” And St. Paul tells Timothy: “Trust in God for strength.” Thus, Lent is not just about giving things up. It is about moving, moving away from fear, sin, and comfort, and moving toward deeper trust in God.
In the 1st reading, the inspired writer calls us to the Courage to Let Go (Genesis 12:1–4a). God tells Abram something shocking: “Leave your country, your family, your father’s house, and go to the land I will show you.” It is worth noting that God does not even tell him where he is going. Just go. Abram is asked to leave, Security, Familiar surroundings. And Scripture says simply “So Abram went, as the Lord had told him.” That is faith. Lent is our time to “leave” something behind. Maybe God is not asking us to change countries, but He may be asking us to leave: A sinful habit we have become comfortable with, a bad friendship pulling us away from Him, a bitterness we have held for years, a lifestyle that leaves no room for prayer.
We often want God to show us the full plan first like the lady I spoke about who wanted to know if God will provide. But God says, “Start walking. I will show you the land on the way.” Faith begins with a step, not with full understanding. Thus the Psalmist in the Psalm reminds us that “Blessed are the people the Lord has chosen to be his own” This is important. When God asks us to leave something, it is not to harm us but it is to bless us. So in the Bible, whenever God says “leave,” it is always followed by “I will bless you.” In this lent, Leave sin → find freedom, leave selfishness → find love, leave comfort → find purpose. God is never trying to reduce your life. He is trying to enlarge your heart.
In the 2nd reading St. Paul speaks very honestly, yes trusting in the Lord does not mean there will be no hardship. “Bear your share of hardship for the Gospel with the strength that comes from God.” Notice that he does not say, “There will be no hardship.” He says, “God will give you strength.” Many Christians think faith means problems will disappear. But faith actually means we are never alone in our problems. You are not carrying your cross by your strength alone. There is grace available but we must rely on it through prayer and trust. Trust in God to provide all you will need.
In the Gospel, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up the mountain. There He is transfigured that is shining with divine glory. Jesus gives them a preview of glory before the scandal of the Cross. God does the same with us. Sometimes He gives us a powerful experience, A retreat that renews us, A deep moment of peace. But like the disciples, we cannot stay there. Christian life is not staying on the mountain. It is walking with Jesus into everyday life, strengthened by what we have seen in prayer.
Finally from the cloud, the Father speaks: “This is my beloved Son… listen to him.” Not just admire Him. Not just call ourselves Christians. Listen to Him. When Jesus says: “Forgive” — we forgive “Pray” — we make time, “Give alms” — we become generous, “Take up your cross” — we stop running from responsibility
Today I want you to remember as we walk the Lenten season
Like the Father said: Listen to Jesus and do what he wishes
Like Abram: Leave something behind be it the bad habit or that which hinders your growth in faith
Like the disciples: Do not be afraid of the cross. Just trust in God.
Leave a Reply