Second Sunday of Lent
Mt 17:1-9
March 5, 2023

Green Bay Packers star quarterback Aaron Rodgers recently made the news, and not because of some spectacular play on the football field. Rather, his decision to spend four days in a specially outfitted “hermitage” (my word not his) in total isolation from the outside world, and in complete darkness, drew the attention of the press, his fans, the general public, and, actually, so called “experts” in psychological and emotional well-being.

In the past, he has described using yoga, meditation, and even certain drugs to calm his fear of death and to promote “self-love.” As he explains his most recent venture, which ironically was undertaken as the Christian world entered the Lenten Season, as an effort to: stimulate his mind…get into a better headspace…and have a greater peace in his life. He might not be familiar with the term, but what he is doing through these somewhat “unconventional” methods is spiritual discernment. No criticism there.

As I read the various articles about this sports celebrity, my mind went to the Gospel proclaimed on Ash Wednesday (Matt. 6:1-6). There, Jesus encourages those on a “spiritual quest” to do so in private. On the other hand, when a public figure acknowledges a desire to rise above the material world, there is the potential for positive influence on others…especially young fans. That is a good thing. So, again, no criticism.

However, missing in the various reports was any reference to Christ. Herein lies possible criticism.

In the extremely unlikely event that I am ever able to speak to Aaron Rodgers, I would say: Hey Pal, I admire what you did. But you do realize that you were NEVER alone during those four days of darkness, don’t you? The Holy Spirit was with you every second.

As far as the “experts” who have weighed in on the pros and cons of “darkness retreats,” I would try to explain that, from a spiritual standpoint, there are two kinds of darkness. There is the darkness that comes about when we are blind to God’s loving presence in our lives and in our world. This is a darkness brought about by poor decisions, bad choices, evil thoughts, and divisive feelings. Truth cannot exist in this kind of darkness but lies and falsehoods thrive. It is the kind of darkness where the “boogeyman” dwells.

This darkness breeds fears of every kind, including the fear of death. It is a spiritual, psychological, and emotional condition that leaves the human mind vulnerable to self-doubt and self-loathing. There is no peace to be had in this darkness that resists the Light of Christ.

And then there is a darkness described in a variety of ways by many holy people. It is an inviting kind of darkness that the Holy Spirit leads us to…even as the Spirit led Jesus into the desert…the kind of isolation into which Jesus led Peter, James, and John on the mountaintop. Drawn into this healing darkness, seekers find peace and hope. And you don’t need to travel to a special place or pay big money for this spiritual therapy. All one has to do is to shut the doors, draw the curtains, blocking the access of the blaring lights of this world. So protected from all distractions and worries and fears from the “outside,” one can overpower temptations and be healed, all within the shelter of their inner room. God’s saving grace thrives in this “holy darkness” and brings with it stronger faith, abiding hope, deeper love…and peace…THE PEACE OF CHRIST.

Isolating the soul from all things but God, it is within this SACRED darkness that we develop an inner vision of who are at the very core of our being…BELOVED CHILDREN CREATED IN THE IMAGE AND LIKENESS OF GOD. This darkness is like the bright cloud that surrounded Peter, James, and John on the mountaintop, enabling them to hear the heavenly Voice urging them to Listen to Jesus.

Once again, reaching back to the Ash Wednesday Gospel proclaimed as we began our Lenten practices of PRAYER, FASTING, and ALMSGIVING…this “holy darkness” is to be found in our “inner room.” And we can access this place where truth flourishes and Peace abounds by simply finding a quiet place and closing our eyes to anything but God.

Reflecting on the mysterious events of The Transfiguration, Pope Francis once said: We all need to go apart, to ascend the mountain in a space of silence, to find ourselves and better perceive the voice of the Lord. This we do in prayer…and this is curious. When we hear the Word of Jesus, when we listen to the Word of Jesus and carry it in our heart, this Word grows…Do not forget: This week, listen to Jesus! And think about the matter of the Gospel: Will you? Will you do this? Then, next Sunday, you tell me if you have done this.

When Aaron Rodgers stepped out of his four days of total darkness and into the light, he was momentarily blinded. He would have had to shield his eyes from the sun. When seekers emerge from the “holy darkness” of their inner room into which they have been led by the Spirit, they can look directly into the Face of The Son…and rejoice in the Glory of God.

Do not forget:

(Pope Francis) This week, listen to Jesus! And think about the matter of the Gospel: Will you? Will you do this? Then, next Sunday, you tell me if you have found a very simple and easy way to…

(Aaron Rodgers) stimulate your mind…get into a better headspace…and have a greater peace in life…

And all from your recliner (Me!)