Transfiguration of the Lord

Readings: 1^st: Dan 7:9-10.13-14; Ps 96; 2^nd: 2 Pt 1:16-19; Gos: Mt 17:1-9

This brief reflection was written by Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a member of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (Spiritans). He is a missionary in Puerto Rico, the island of enchantment. He is the Chancellor of the Dioceses of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico; the Parish Priest of Parroquia la Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Major Superior of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (Spiritans), Circumscription of Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic. For more details and comments contact him at:  canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

Today, the Thursday of eighteenth week of ordinary time, the Church celebrates the feast of transfiguration of the Lord.

This feast is one of the immovable feasts of the church. In other words, it is celebrated on the day it falls (6th of August).

In the gospel, Jesus took three of his disciples to the top of a mountain. There, he revealed a glimpse of his glory to them. Glorified with him were, Moses (the law giver), and Elijah (the great prophet).

They were glorified with Christ because they overcame. It was also a sign that the Old Testament was not completely forgotten.

Their efforts were not in vain. So, they share in the glory of Christ. We shall also share in the same glory, if we overcome.

Saint Theresa of Avila wrote: “The more I meditate on heaven, the more I dislike this world.” Also, Blessed James Alberione wrote: “We should spend our life, with our knees bent on earth, and eyes raised to heaven.”

No wonder, the disciples did not want to go down after the majestic and mystical experience they had. They saw the shekinah, the glory of the divine presence. It was so amazing that they wished to remain there forever.

However, they had to come down, because it was only a glimpse of the future glory. Jesus showed them a glimpse of the glory we all shall share. However, this would only be, after sharing His suffering.

Therefore, it is the desire for this glory that gives us the courage to face the challenges of this world. It is this desire that helps us to persevere in our faith. This holy and noble desire must also keep us focused at all time.

So, the core message of the transfiguration of our Lord is quite simple. There is a glory that awaits all believers at the end of time.

Also, like Mosses, Elijah and all the triumphant saints, we too shall reign with Christ, and definitely, share in his future glory.

Peace be with you.

Maranatha!