Readings: Daniel 7:9-10,13-14, Ps. 97:1-2,5-6,9, Mark 9:2-10
“Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” (Mark 9:5)
Today’s Gospel passage begins with this statement: “Jesus took Peter and James and John with him, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them…” (Mark 9:2). What does a high mountain represent? A place of prayer, a meeting place with God. Luke tells us that Jesus took his disciples to the mountain to pray, and it was during his prayer that the Transfiguration happened. (Luke 9:27-28). The Transfiguration of Jesus points to the importance of going up to the mountain, that is, constant prayer. As Jesus was transfigured, we, too, are transfigured (God opens our eyes to divine realities) during prayer.
- During the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah (two great prayer warriors) were seen talking with Jesus. Do you remember how Moses climbed to the top of Mount Sinai to meet God? (cf. Exodus 19:20). Do you remember how Elijah confronted the 450 prophets of Baal at Mount Carmel? (cf. 1 Kings 18:19). We go to the mountain each time we go up to the church to pray; this is why the Altar is elevated above the congregation’s level. The next time you enter a church, picture yourself approaching a mountain; put off any distractions and focus on Jesus.
- The Transfiguration was an eye-opening experience for Peter, James, and John that convinced them beyond doubt and strengthened their Faith. This experience can be likened to the case of Thomas after touching Jesus’ resurrected body. “My Lord and my God.” (John 20:26). After witnessing the Transfiguration, Peter, in today’s Second Reading, confessed: “It was not any cleverly invented myths that we were repeating when we brought you the knowledge and power and the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:16).
- Heaven is real. There is more to life than meets the eye. This is Daniel’s message in today’s First Reading. Instead of doubting God’s existence, be humble enough to ask God to open your eyes as He opened Daniel’s. Ask God to reveal His glory to you. As the Psalm says, “O taste and see that the Lord is good; happy are those who take refuge in him” (Psalm 34:8).
- The fact that Moses and Elijah were there to strengthen Jesus’ Faith (prepare Him for His arrest and crucifixion) teaches us that we all need encouragement. There are moments when we need a pat on the back. Learn to be Moses and Elijah to those around you. The book of Proverbs tells us: “Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” (Proverbs 16:24). These ongoing protests in our country show that many people are depressed, hungry, and angry. This is not the time to insult or talk down anyone. Be an encouragement.
- Like the man who was so excited about discovering the treasure in the field and rushed to buy the field (make it his permanent possession), Peter wanted to establish the permanence of the Transfiguration by building three tents. We all experience Transfiguration now and then – moments of excitement, discovery, or joy. These things come and go. They are highlights of our journey, not destinations in themselves. We can never make them permanent. Do not be a miracle-seeking Christian. God is with us even in the most ordinary events of life.
- Peter was still speaking when God interrupted him. “This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!” (Mark 9:7). We don’t need three tents (miracles); we only need to keep quiet and listen to Jesus. While coming down the mountain, Jesus warned Peter, James, and John not to broadcast the Transfiguration until after his resurrection. Why? It was not yet time; Jesus had not yet been lifted on the Cross. “When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw all people to myself.” (John 12:32). Faith built on miracles (signs and wonders, extraordinary events) is unsustainable, but Faith built on the Cross (with its pain and agony) will see you through anything.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, open our eyes to see your transfigured image that our Faith may increase daily. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (The Transfiguration of the Lord - Feast Liturgical. Bible Study: Daniel 7:9-10,13-14, Ps. 97:1-2,5-6,9, Mark 9:2-10).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu
No comments:
Post a Comment