Thursday, August 6, 2020


Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord

(Daniel 7:9-10.13-14; II Peter 1:16-19; Matthew 17:1-9)

Many are struggling today.  Unemployment around the world continues to grow.  People are both restless from five months of restrictions and apprehensive about going out.  A portion of the population feels oppressed while another portion is outraged by the incivility of protests.  To whom may they turn for help?

Unsurprisingly, today’s gospel points to Jesus for rescue.  The light radiating from his face and clothes show him to be like God.  He is not only conversant with the great prophets of antiquity but also receives endorsement from on high.  The message from the luminous cloud is unequivocal.  The disciples are to “listen to him.”

It is thought that the purpose of the Transfiguration is to shore up the faith of Jesus’ disciples as he takes them to Jerusalem.  There, of course, he will be crucified.  Our faith today also needs support.  It will come from focusing on what Jesus says about praying for the coming of the Father’s kingdom and from treating others as we would be treated.  As surely as Jesus’ cross led to his resurrection, our struggles will culminate in unmitigated joy.