What's up with that weird First Reading?

I always thought the story from Genesis that is our First Reading this weekend was really weird, until I learned what that strange ritual with the split sacrifices and the flaming torch actually meant. Well... ok, it's still kind of weird, but at least it's not weird and meaningless. There is a message God was sending to Abram, and also to us. And it has a connection to what He said to the disciples on the mountaintop in the Gospel reading.

So before you go to Mass this weekend and go, "Whaaaaat???" at the First Reading, watch this (about 1 min 30 sec) video.

I don't talk about the Gospel reading in the video because it's one that I think you're probably familiar with, the Transfiguration... but do pay attention to that one, it's such a good one to visualize.

Using your visual imagination is a good way to let Scripture sink into your mind and heart more deeply as you're reading/listening. So try picturing the Transfiguration scene, hearing the voices of the characters, seeing their emotions on their faces, like a movie playing in your mind, and notice anything that really stands out to you or moves you. Those can be good things to return to in prayer later on and say something to God about (another "before/after Communion prayer" suggestion!)