Transfiguration of the Lord

This is my beloved Son, with whom I am pleased; listen to him. (Matthew 17:1-9)

The Apostles, Peter, John, and James, see the transfiguring of Jesus on the mountain. Moses and Elijah appear with him on the mountain and speak with them. Perhaps, they spoke about his Passover, which was not far away. Peter writes later that it was not a clever myth but the power of the coming of Our Lord Jesus Christ. We were eyewitnesses of his majesty. Daniel had a similar vision; one like a Son of Man received dominion, glory, and kingship; his kingship shall not be destroyed.

Pope John Paul II proclaimed the transfiguring of Jesus Christ is a model of the transformation of disciples of Jesus through the sacraments of baptism and Eucharist. The blood of Jesus in the Eucharist is the new and eternal covenant poured out for us and the many for the forgiveness of sins. We also entered into a covenant in baptism and were confirmed by the anointing of the Holy Spirit in confirmation and nourished in our participation in Holy Communion.

“Rise and do not be afraid,” Jesus tells the Apostles and us. Jesus said it many times. Sacraments are gifts from our loving Abba and Savior. They are grace on grace and a share in the very life God gives us and nourishes in us.

Saint Eymard has many thoughts about the growth of spirituality. This growth is continuous and gives us peace and joy as we start each day and thank God for his mercy and goodness each day. Love is fire and warmth. Our strength comes from God, not from ourselves. The Father says we should listen to Jesus. Jesus tells us not to be afraid but be happy, hopeful, and loving to those who need our help.

Let us pray:

Father, may our sharing of the Eucharist transform us grace on grace as we celebrate the Transfiguration of the Lord on this Feast. Jesus gives himself to us; may we give ourselves to him.