TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD
This moment in Jesus’ life is described in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 17: 1-8; Mark 9: 2-8; and Luke 9:28-36) and in 2 Peter 1:16-18. Three of Jesus’ disciples accompany him up a mountain to experience an extraordinary event. Jesus is joined by Moses and Elijah in a glorious vision of light and the disciples tremble in awe and fear at what they see.
From our vantage point, we might be tempted to think, “Jesus is the Son of God! He surrendered his equality to God to have this human experience.” And the Transfiguration may not seem so significant.
From the vantage point of the apostles who were present, it is an epiphany of extraordinary wonder. They have been following this friend and listening to his teaching. Their lives are being changed every day by the words Jesus speaks and by his compassionate deeds. Are they investing their lives in someone who will ultimately bring God’s kingdom to earth? Is Jesus the Messiah that their people have been longing for? This moment may have offered them the certainty they desired.
From the vantage point of Jesus, it is a moment of oneness with his Father. He is so blessed to feel the intimate connection that Moses and Elijah now experience, and together they are illuminated by a fullness of love.
When I was attending a congregational gathering many years ago, as a fervent young religious, I had an insight that I has stayed with me for about 30 years. It was this: if I deeply and wholeheartedly believed and allowed myself to be open to God’s love, I would glow with the grace. Those around would know about God’s love because they would see it manifested in me. When I shared the insight with my sister friends, they smiled and enjoyed my piety. One sister who I considered to be a holy woman, took me aside quietly and with a smile said, “Believe it!”
This is the day that I celebrate God’s tremendous love for each one of us. Do we have the courage and faith to be open to “the glow?”
Pat Carter, CSJ is a disciple, a teacher and an advocate for the poor. She has been a Sister of St. Joseph for more than half of her life and loves to use words to inspire faith and laughter. She is a cantor at her parish of St. Jerome’s in Sault Ste. Marie.
