Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord

Today's Mass Readings

“While he was praying, his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white.” This scene at the top of the mountain must have been beyond imagination, and in it, we can see a glimpse of heaven as described in our first reading. Jesus went up the mountain to pray, but Peter and his companions were overcome with sleep. They were awoken by a bright light in which they saw Jesus in his glory accompanied by Moses and Elijah. This inspired Peter to say, “Master it is good that we are here.” Peter wanted to build tents so as to remain in this glorious moment. But these moments are to give us strength and fortitude to continue on our faith journey and to realize, as the Father said from Heaven, that we are in the presence of the chosen Son, and we must listen to him.

There are many times that we too fail in strength and are overcome with sleep. This can be in relaxation of devotion, a judgment of others, or a lack of attention when we are in prayer or at Mass. Often in these times, Jesus comes to us revealing his glory, although not always with bright lights with sounds of trumpets. Many times, they are in small ways like a sudden feeling of peace in our prayer, a deep love felt for someone or feeling loved, or maybe a realization of God’s presence in our lives. There are countless other ways in which Jesus is transfigured for us to give us strength. We must always hold these experiences in our hearts. “You will do well to be attentive to it, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.”

Reflection by Br. Placid Dale, OSB