Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord
(Daniel 7:9-10.13-14; II Peter 1:16-19; Mark 9:2-10)
Protestant theologian Rudolf Otto helped us understand today’s
Feast of the Transfiguration. In a book
written over a hundred years ago, the German scholar wrote that the holy impresses
two powerful feelings on its beholder. First,
it inspires awe in the observer by its beauty or wonder. Then it imparts a sense of fear that what is
so wonderful will also be overwhelming. This
is Moses’ experience at the burning bush and also the apostles’ at Christ’s
transfiguration.
On the mountaintop Jesus reveals the divinity of his dual
nature that was suppressed in the incarnation.
He is confirming Peter’s insight made shortly before this manifestation
that he is the Messiah or Christ. That
is, he is God’s emissary sent to fully reveal the divine will. The radiance of his garments suggests that he
is a heavenly being capable of overwhelming any human subject. His conversations with Moses and Elijah
likewise indicate that his message transcends all earthly wisdom.
Although the transfiguration first and foremost applies to
Jesus, it also has a common significance.
We through the grace of the sacraments are being transfigured into holy
people. We no longer see others as
mostly useful for our needs but as brothers and sisters to be cared for. Indeed, our interaction with the world with
attentive love becomes a way to manifest God’s glory.
