Our crosses of life in Christ Jesus are indispensable and they are the only way to eternal life. Life is sweet when you live in blissfulness! Yet, the Christian is not a peaceful life without difficulties. The crosses of life are part and parcel of daily living in Christ Jesus.
The context of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ relays to us that the cross of pain is equally the crown of glory. It is clear that the passion, suffering and death of God: Jesus Christ is not alone a concern or shock to his disciples, but also a scandal. How could the almighty, powerful and saving God be so vulnerable, weak and helpless in the hands of men? It is a mystery incomprehensible.
The spirit of Lent is one of sacrifice. A sacrifice that leads to transformation and renewal. A sacrifice of Lent is the Easter joy of the resurrection. Hence, Lent invites us to renounce something precious in us: ego, desire or things. It is a time of penitential sacrifice to give up something we hold dear for the sake of the gospel.