More Than the Desert: Rediscovering Lent Through the Mountain

More Than the Desert: Rediscovering Lent Through the Mountain

It is generally the case as we move through the season of Lent. . .

. . . that we hear the statement that during Lent, we are in the desert with Jesus. And that’s true, but only to a certain extent. The church has a much fuller understanding of the season of Lent than simply being in the desert with Jesus. And that’s because the desert doesn’t go anywhere, and Lent does.

The Homily explores the deeper meaning of Lent beyond the common notion of simply “being in the desert with Jesus.” While the desert symbolizes the struggle of human life and temptation, Lent is not meant to leave us there. Instead, it’s a journey — a movement with Christ toward transformation and salvation, culminating in the celebration of Easter.

The Church Uses Three Symbolic Models to Understand Lent

The Church uses three symbolic models to understand Lent: the desert, the mountain of the Transfiguration, and the journey to Jerusalem. The desert represents the harsh reality of a world hostile to goodness, but Christ meets us there to lead us onward. The mountain of the Transfiguration reveals another dimension of Lent — an ascent with Christ, where distractions fall away, our spiritual vision sharpens, and we encounter divine light and truth.

This mountaintop experience is not just a metaphor but a preparation for the Resurrection. It reveals Christ’s divine glory and reassures us of the destination: eternal life and glory, not just hardship or sacrifice. The Transfiguration calls us to deeper listening and seeing — to lift our hearts, clarify our vision, and engage more fully in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

Ultimately, the Homily culminates in the Eucharist, where Christ not only invites us to look and listen but to receive Him fully into our hearts. Lent is not just about abstaining but about ascending — spiritually rising with Christ toward His glory and our transformation.

Listen more within this Meditation Media listen to:

More Than the Desert: Rediscovering Lent Through the Mountain