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.
