Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord
Lectionary: 614
Lectionary: 614
As I watched:
Thrones were set up
and the Ancient One took his throne.
His clothing was bright as snow,
and the hair on his head as white as wool;
his throne was flames of fire,
with wheels of burning fire.
A surging stream of fire
flowed out from where he sat;
Thousands upon thousands were ministering to him,
and myriads upon myriads attended him.
The court was convened and the books were opened.
As the visions during the night continued, I saw:
One like a Son of man coming,
on the clouds of heaven;
When he reached the Ancient One
and was presented before him,
The one like a Son of man received dominion, glory, and kingship;
all peoples, nations, and languages serve him.
His dominion is an everlasting dominion
that shall not be taken away,
his kingship shall not be destroyed.
Thrones were set up
and the Ancient One took his throne.
His clothing was bright as snow,
and the hair on his head as white as wool;
his throne was flames of fire,
with wheels of burning fire.
A surging stream of fire
flowed out from where he sat;
Thousands upon thousands were ministering to him,
and myriads upon myriads attended him.
The court was convened and the books were opened.
As the visions during the night continued, I saw:
One like a Son of man coming,
on the clouds of heaven;
When he reached the Ancient One
and was presented before him,
The one like a Son of man received dominion, glory, and kingship;
all peoples, nations, and languages serve him.
His dominion is an everlasting dominion
that shall not be taken away,
his kingship shall not be destroyed.
Responsorial PsalmPS 97:1-2, 5-6, 9
R. (1a and 9a) The Lord is king, the Most High over all the
earth.
The LORD is king; let the earth rejoice;
let the many islands be glad.
Clouds and darkness are round about him,
justice and judgment are the foundation of his throne.
R. The Lord is king, the Most High over all the earth.
The mountains melt like wax before the LORD,
before the LORD of all the earth.
The heavens proclaim his justice,
and all peoples see his glory.
R. The Lord is king, the Most High over all the earth.
Because you, O LORD, are the Most High over all the earth,
exalted far above all gods.
R. The Lord is king, the Most High over all the earth.
The LORD is king; let the earth rejoice;
let the many islands be glad.
Clouds and darkness are round about him,
justice and judgment are the foundation of his throne.
R. The Lord is king, the Most High over all the earth.
The mountains melt like wax before the LORD,
before the LORD of all the earth.
The heavens proclaim his justice,
and all peoples see his glory.
R. The Lord is king, the Most High over all the earth.
Because you, O LORD, are the Most High over all the earth,
exalted far above all gods.
R. The Lord is king, the Most High over all the earth.
Reading 22 PT 1:16-19
Beloved:
We did not follow cleverly devised myths
when we made known to you
the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ,
but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty.
For he received honor and glory from God the Father
when that unique declaration came to him from the majestic glory,
“This is my Son, my beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”
We ourselves heard this voice come from heaven
while we were with him on the holy mountain.
Moreover, we possess the prophetic message that is altogether reliable.
You will do well to be attentive to it,
as to a lamp shining in a dark place,
until day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.
We did not follow cleverly devised myths
when we made known to you
the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ,
but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty.
For he received honor and glory from God the Father
when that unique declaration came to him from the majestic glory,
“This is my Son, my beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”
We ourselves heard this voice come from heaven
while we were with him on the holy mountain.
Moreover, we possess the prophetic message that is altogether reliable.
You will do well to be attentive to it,
as to a lamp shining in a dark place,
until day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.
GospelLK 9:28B-36
Jesus took Peter,
John, and James
and went up a mountain to pray.
While he was praying his face changed in appearance
and his clothing became dazzling white.
And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah,
who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus
that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem.
Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep,
but becoming fully awake,
they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.
As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus,
“Master, it is good that we are here;
let us make three tents,
one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
But he did not know what he was saying.
While he was still speaking,
a cloud came and cast a shadow over them,
and they became frightened when they entered the cloud.
Then from the cloud came a voice that said,
“This is my chosen Son; listen to him.”
After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone.
They fell silent and did not at that time
tell anyone what they had seen.
and went up a mountain to pray.
While he was praying his face changed in appearance
and his clothing became dazzling white.
And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah,
who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus
that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem.
Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep,
but becoming fully awake,
they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.
As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus,
“Master, it is good that we are here;
let us make three tents,
one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
But he did not know what he was saying.
While he was still speaking,
a cloud came and cast a shadow over them,
and they became frightened when they entered the cloud.
Then from the cloud came a voice that said,
“This is my chosen Son; listen to him.”
After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone.
They fell silent and did not at that time
tell anyone what they had seen.
Meditation : "Jesus
was transfigured before them"
Are
you prepared to see God's glory? God is eager to share his glory with us! We
get a glimpse of this when some of the disciples see Jesus transfigured in
glory on a high mountain. [In the Eastern Orthodox, Catholic,
and Anglican churches, this event is celebrated as a major feast on August 6.]
Jesus often went to a lonely place to pray – to seek solitude and sanctuary
away from the crowds. But on this occasion, the Gospel of Mark tells us that Jesus
was transfigured ..and his garments became glistening, intensely white (Mark
9:2,3).
When
Moses met with God on Mount Sinai the skin of his face shone because he
had been talking with God (see Exodus 34:29). Paul says that the
Israelites could not look at Moses' face because of its brightness (2
Corinthians 3:7). In the Gospel account Jesus appeared in glory with Moses, the
great lawgiver of Israel, and with Elijah, the greatest of the prophets, in the
presence of three of his beloved apostles – Peter, James, and John.
What is
the significance of this mysterious appearance? Jesus went to the mountain
knowing full well what awaited him in Jerusalem – his betrayal, rejection and
crucifixion. Jesus very likely discussed this momentous decision to go to the
cross with Moses and Elijah. God the Father also spoke with Jesus and gave his
approval: This is my beloved Son; listen to him. The Father
glorified his son because he obeyed. The cloud which overshadowed Jesus and his
apostles fulfilled the dream of the Jews that when the Messiah came the cloud
of God's presence would fill the temple again (see Exodus 16:10, 19:9, 33:9; 1
Kings 8:10; 2 Maccabees 2:8).
The Lord
Jesus not only wants us to see his glory – he wants to share this glory with
us. And Jesus shows us the way to the Father's glory: follow me – obey my words
– take the path I have chosen for you and you will receive the blessings of my
Father's kingdom – your name will be written in heaven. Jesus succeeded in his
mission because he went to Calvary so that Paradise would be restored to us
once again. He embraced the cross to obtain the crown of glory that awaits each
one of us, if we will follow in his footsteps.
Origen,
the great 3rd century bible scholar, shows us how the transfiguration can
change our lives: “When he is transfigured, his face also shines as the sun
that he may be manifested to the children of light who have put off the works
of darkness and put on the armor of light, and are no longer the children of
darkness or night but have become the sons of day, and walk honestly as in the
day. Being manifest, he will shine unto them not simply as the sun, but as
demonstrated to be the sun of righteousness.”
Luke’s
gospel tells us that while Jesus was transfigured, Peter, James, and John were
asleep (Luke 9:32)! Upon awakening they discovered Jesus in glory along with
Moses and Elijah. How much do we miss of God's glory and action because we are
asleep spiritually? There are many things which can keep our minds asleep
to the things of God: Mental lethargy and the "unexamined life" can
keep us from thinking things through and facing our doubts and questions. The
life of ease can also hinder us from considering the challenging or disturbing
demands of Christ. Prejudice can make us blind to something new the Lord may
have for us. Even sorrow can be a block until we can see past it to the glory
of God. Are you spiritually awake? Peter, James, and John were privileged
witnesses of the glory of Christ. We, too, as disciples of Christ are called to
be witnesses of his glory. We all, with unveiled face, beholding the
glory of the Lord, are being changed into his likeness from one degree of glory
to another; for this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit (2
Corinthians 3:18). The Lord wants to reveal his glory to us, his beloved
disciples. Do you seek his presence with faith and reverence?
“Lord
Jesus, keep me always alert and awake to you, to your word, your action, and
your daily presence in my life. Let me see your glory.”
 Love’s Labor Transfigured |
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Transfiguration of
the Lord
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Luke 9: 28b-36
Jesus took Peter, John, and James and went
up a mountain to pray. While he was praying his face changed in appearance
and his clothing became dazzling white. And behold, two men were conversing
with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus
that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem. Peter and his companions had
been overcome by sleep, but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the
two men standing with him. As they were about to part from him, Peter said to
Jesus, "Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents,
one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." But he did not know
what he was saying. While he was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a
shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud.
Then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my chosen Son;
listen to him." After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. They
fell silent and did not at that time tell anyone what they had seen.
Introductory Prayer: Lord, I believe in your wondrous shining glory, although this
is hidden from my eyes. I hope in the peace and everlasting joy of the world
to come, for this world is a valley of tears. I love you, even though I am
not always able to discern the love in your intentions when you permit me to
suffer. You are my God and my all.
Petition: Lord, detach my heart from the world, and allow me to live for
love of you.
1. The Great Exodus: Jesus was conversing with Moses and Elijah
about his exodus: the liberation of mankind from the slavery to sin. He was
not speaking about the miracles he would perform, the comforts or beauty of
this world, or the ambitions he might hold. He was not concerned with the
opportunities he might have to use his talents, to achieve great things, to
win esteem from others, to make a name for himself, or to rest and relax.
Jesus was not speaking about any of these things. His only desire was his
exodus – his suffering and death and departure from this world to glorify his
Father, fulfilling his will by saving mankind.
2. The Promised Land: Our hearts can love and be attached to many
things: ambitions, desires, hopes, esteem, comfort, getting things done,
using our talents, self-fulfillment. Our Lord chose to subordinate all these
possibilities to the love of his Father. This is what it means to follow
Christ and be “detached” from the world: to be ready to give up any of these
goods for love of Christ, should he require us to do so. We must be so in
love with Christ that we esteem him more than all of these other loves. This
is the true Promised Land and true liberation from the slavery of egoism. The
fruits of dying to self in this way are joy, peace, love and eternal life.
3. Rising from a Seed: “Unless a grain of wheat falls to the
ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat” (John 12:24). All of our
loves have to be purified, dying like seeds in the ground, because all of our
loves have a strong elements of self-centeredness embedded in them. It is
this self-centeredness that must be uprooted and die. If we analyze what we
love we will see that this is true. A wife who loves her husband may
experience a self-centered aspect of her love that causes her to seek to
control him. A father who loves his son might punish him out of his anger
instead of for the son’s greater good. The self-centered element of our love
impoverishes and tarnishes it, causing us, in reality, to love much less than
we are capable of loving.
Conversation with Christ: Lord, free my heart from every selfish
aspect of my love. Help me make that generous step of “dying to self” in this
way. Help me to understand that this will always lead to true freedom and joy
in my heart and to a greater capacity of true self-giving.
Resolution: I will make a generous decision to overcome
some area of selfishness in a relationship today.
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 6
FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD
LUKE 9:28b-36
FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD
LUKE 9:28b-36
(Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14; Psalm 97; 2 Peter 1:16-19)
KEY VERSE: "Then from a cloud came a voice that said, `This is my chosen Son; listen to him'" (v 35).
READING: Jesus took three of his disciples up a mountain to pray, and there he became transfigured with God's glory. The mount of the transfiguration is traditionally associated with Mount Tabor, but it is more likely Mount Hermon, fourteen miles from Caesarea Philippi where Jesus just asked his disciples: "Who do you say that I am?" (9:20). The mountain was a unique place of God's revelation. Moses, the great liberator, received the Law on Mount Sinai (Ex 19:3,916; 34:27-29) and the great prophet Elijah experienced God's presence on Mount Horeb (1 Kgs 19:8). The Transfiguration was a revelation that Jesus was the new liberator and prophet, but also that suffering and divinity were not mutually exclusive. Jesus' saving death (his "exodus") fulfilled the scriptures, freeing the people from their slavery to sin. Jesus was God's chosen one to whom the people must listen (Dt 18:15). Peter saw Jesus as a tabernacle of God's presence, and desired to abide on the mountain in tents, an allusion to the exodus journey in the wilderness (Lv 23:41-43). But the disciples could not stay in the glory of the mountain; they must return to face the difficult road that lay ahead.
REFLECTING: Do I try to listen to Jesus' voice every day?
PRAYING: Lord Jesus, how good it is to be in your presence.
HIROSHIMA DAY
Hiroshima Day is a fitting day to pray for peace in our world, and for nuclear disarmament and an end to the arms race: "God who created this world and revealed your love for all people in Jesus Christ, empower us to work for peace with justice, cooperating with all people of goodwill. We pray that your Holy Spirit may go throughout the world this day, reminding all rulers and peoples of the horror of nuclear weapons and engendering in all a desire to stop nuclear proliferation, and to end the reliance on military force to resolve political and economic disputes. Give to all humankind a vision of a world where weapons have been banished, and everyone works for the good of humankind and the environment. Lord hear our prayer." "On my knees I beg you to turn away from the paths of violence and return to the ways of peace. You may claim to seek justice. I too believe in justice and seek justice. But violence only delays the day of justice. Violence destroys the work of justice." Pope John Paul II 1978-2005
The Story of the Paper Cranes
The paper crane has become an international symbol of peace as a result of it's connection to the story of a young Japanese girl named Sadako Sasaki born in 1943. Sadako was two years old when the atom bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, Japan on August 6, 1945. At age 11 Sadako was diagnosed with Leukemia, "the atom bomb" disease. Sadako's best friend told her of an old Japanese legend which said that anyone who folds a thousand paper cranes would be granted a wish. Sadako hoped that she would get her wish to get well. She started to work on the paper cranes and completed over 1,000 before dying on October 25, 1955 at the age of twelve.
The Lord is king, the most high
over all the earth
Today, as we read the story of the Transfiguration, how many of us identify with Peter? Am I one of those ‘ideas’ people who have an experience and immediately want to act? I may be doing what God would want, but sometimes it may be my personal wish or need, as Peter learned in the fog on the mountain.
While we cannot have the identical experience that Peter, James and John had, we can have our own ‘transfigurations’. Once we develop the practice of a daily review, we live closer to God and can enjoy the richness of God’s presence each day, on the good days as well as the difficult ones. Thanks be to God.
August 6
Transfiguration of the Lord
Transfiguration of the Lord
All three Synoptic Gospels tell the story of the Transfiguration
(Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-9; Luke 9:28-36). With remarkable agreement, all
three place the event shortly after Peter’s confession of faith that Jesus is
the Messiah and Jesus’ first prediction of his passion and death. Peter’s
eagerness to erect tents or booths on the spot suggests it occurred during the
Jewish weeklong, fall Feast of Booths.
In spite
of the texts’ agreement, it is difficult to reconstruct the disciples’
experience, according to Scripture scholars, because the Gospels draw heavily
on Old Testament descriptions of the Sinai encounter with God and prophetic
visions of the Son of Man. Certainly Peter, James and John had a glimpse of
Jesus’ divinity strong enough to strike fear into their hearts. Such an
experience defies description, so they drew on familiar religious language to
describe it. And certainly Jesus warned them that his glory and his suffering
were to be inextricably connected—a theme John highlights throughout his Gospel.
Tradition
names Mt. Tabor as the site of the revelation. A church first raised there in
the fourth century was dedicated on August 6. A feast in honor of the
Transfiguration was celebrated in the Eastern Church from about that time.
Western observance began in some localities about the eighth century.
On July
22, 1456, Crusaders defeated the Turks at Belgrade. News of the victory reached
Rome on August 6, and Pope Callistus III placed the feast on the Roman calendar
the following year.
Comment:
One of the Transfiguration accounts is read on the second Sunday of Lent each year, proclaiming Christ’s divinity to catechumens and baptized alike. The Gospel for the first Sunday of Lent, by contrast, is the story of the temptation in the desert—affirmation of Jesus’ humanity. The two distinct but inseparable natures of the Lord were a subject of much theological argument at the beginning of the Church’s history; it remains hard for believers to grasp.
One of the Transfiguration accounts is read on the second Sunday of Lent each year, proclaiming Christ’s divinity to catechumens and baptized alike. The Gospel for the first Sunday of Lent, by contrast, is the story of the temptation in the desert—affirmation of Jesus’ humanity. The two distinct but inseparable natures of the Lord were a subject of much theological argument at the beginning of the Church’s history; it remains hard for believers to grasp.
Quote:
“At his Transfiguration Christ showed his disciples the splendor of his beauty, to which he will shape and color those who are his: ‘He will reform our lowness configured to the body of his glory’” (Philippians 3:21) (St. Thomas Aquinas,Summa Theologiae).
“At his Transfiguration Christ showed his disciples the splendor of his beauty, to which he will shape and color those who are his: ‘He will reform our lowness configured to the body of his glory’” (Philippians 3:21) (St. Thomas Aquinas,Summa Theologiae).
LECTIO:THE
TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD
Lectio:
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
The transfiguration of Jesus: the cross on the horizon
The passion that leads to glory
1. Opening prayer
Lord Jesus, send your Spirit to help us to read the Scriptures with the same mind that you read them to the disciples on the way to Emmaus. In the light of the Word, written in the Bible, you helped them to discover the presence of God in the disturbing events of your sentence and death. Thus, the cross that seemed to be the end of all hope became for them the source of life and of resurrection.
Create in us silence so that we may listen to your voice in Creation and in the Scriptures, in events and in people, above all in the poor and suffering. May your word guide us so that we too, like the two disciples from Emmaus, may experience the force of your resurrection and witness to others that you are alive in our midst as source of fraternity, justice and peace. We ask this of you, Jesus, son of Mary, who revealed to us the Father and sent us your Spirit. Amen.
2. Reading
a) A key to the reading:
On this Solemnity, the Church meditates on the Transfiguration of Jesus in the presence of the three disciples who joined him on the mountain. The Transfiguration takes place after the first announcement of the death of Jesus (Lk 9:21-22). This announcement had confused the disciples and especially Peter. When we take a close look at the small details, we see that the text describes the transfiguration in a way that makes us aware of how this unusual experience of Jesus was able to help the disciples overcome the crisis in which they found themselves. As we read, let us try to pay attention to the following: "How did the transfiguration take place and what was the reaction of the disciples towards this experience?"
b) A division of the text to help our reading:
Mark 9:2-4: The Transfiguration of Jesus in the presence of his disciples
Mark 9:5-6: Peter’s reaction to the transfiguration
Mark 9:7-8: The voice from heaven that explains the meaning of the Transfiguration
Mark 9:9-10: Keeping secret what they had seen
c) Text:
Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John and led them up a high mountain on their own by themselves. There in their presence he was transfigured: his clothes became brilliantly white, whiter than any earthly bleacher could make them. Elijah appeared to them with Moses; and they were talking to Jesus. Then Peter spoke to Jesus, 'Rabbi,' he said, 'it is wonderful for us to be here; so let us make three shelters, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.' He did not know what to say; they were so frightened. And a cloud came, covering them in shadow; and from the cloud there came a voice, 'This is my Son, the Beloved. Listen to him.' Then suddenly, when they looked round, they saw no one with them any more but only Jesus. As they were coming down from the mountain he warned them to tell no one what they had seen, until after the Son of man had risen from the dead. They observed the warning faithfully, though among themselves they discussed what 'rising from the dead' could mean.
3. A moment of prayerful silence
so that the Word of God may penetrate and enlighten our life.
4. Some questions
to help us in our personal reflection.
a) Which part of the text did you like most or that touched you
most? Why?
b) How does the transfiguration take place and what is the reaction of the disciples to this experience?
c) Why does the text present Jesus with brilliant clothes while he is speaking with Moses and Elijah? Who are Moses and Elijah for Jesus? Who are they for the disciples?
d) What is the message of the voice from heaven for Jesus? And what is the message for the disciples?
e) How can we transfigure, today, our personal and family life and the life of the community in our area?
b) How does the transfiguration take place and what is the reaction of the disciples to this experience?
c) Why does the text present Jesus with brilliant clothes while he is speaking with Moses and Elijah? Who are Moses and Elijah for Jesus? Who are they for the disciples?
d) What is the message of the voice from heaven for Jesus? And what is the message for the disciples?
e) How can we transfigure, today, our personal and family life and the life of the community in our area?
5. For those who wish to go deeper into the theme
a) The context then and now
The foretelling of the passion sank the disciples into a deep
crisis. They lived among the poor, but in their minds they were confused, lost
as they were in the propaganda of the government and of the official religion
of their time (Mk 8:15). The official religion taught that the Messiah would be
glorious and victorious! That is why Peter reacts strongly against the cross
(Mk 8:32). Someone condemned to die on the cross could not be the Messiah,
rather, according to the Law of God, he had to be considered “cursed by God”
(Dt 21:22-23). In these circumstances, the experience of the Transfiguration of
Jesus was able to help the disciples overcome the trauma of the Cross. In fact,
at the Transfiguration, Jesus appears in glory and speaks with Moses and Elijah
of his Passion and Death (Lk 9:31). The journey towards glory, then, is through
the cross.
In the 70’s, when Mark is writing his Gospel, the Cross was a
great obstacle for the Jews to accept Jesus as the Messiah. How could it be
that one crucified, one who died as one marginalized, was the great Messiah
expected for centuries by the people? The cross was an obstacle to believing in
Jesus. "The cross is a scandal," they said (1Cor 1:23). The community
did not know how to respond to the critical questions put to them by the Jews.
One of the great efforts of the early Christians was that of assisting people
to see that the cross was neither scandal nor madness, but rather the
expression of the power and wisdom of God (1Cor 1:22-31). Mark’s Gospel
contributes to that effort. He uses texts from the Old Testament to describe
the scene of the Transfiguration. He shed light on the events of the life of
Jesus and shows that Jesus fulfils the prophecies and that the Cross is the way
that leads to Glory. It was not just the cross of Jesus that was a problem! In
the 70’s, the cross of persecution was part of every-day life for Christians.
In fact, just a little time before, Nero had launched his persecution and many
died. Today too, many people suffer because they are Christians and because
they live the Gospel. How do we approach the cross? What does it mean? With
these questions in mind we meditate and comment on the text of the
transfiguration.
b) A commentary on the text:
Mark 9:2-4: Jesus looks different.
Jesus goes up a high mountain. Luke adds that he goes there to pray (Lk 9:28). There, on the summit of the mountain, Jesus appears in glory in the presence of Peter, James and John. Together with him appear Moses and Elijah. The high mountain recalls Mount Sinai, where in times past, God had made known his will to the people by presenting the law to Moses. The white clothes of Jesus recall Moses shrouded in light as he speaks to God on the Mountain and as he receives the law from God (cf. Ex 34:29-35). Elijah and Moses, the two great authorities of the Old Testament, speak with Jesus. Moses represents the Law and Elijah the prophets. Luke says that they talked about the Death of Jesus in Jerusalem (Lk 9:31). Thus it was clear that the Old Testament, both the Law and the Prophets, taught that the way to glory is through the cross (Cf Is 53).
Jesus goes up a high mountain. Luke adds that he goes there to pray (Lk 9:28). There, on the summit of the mountain, Jesus appears in glory in the presence of Peter, James and John. Together with him appear Moses and Elijah. The high mountain recalls Mount Sinai, where in times past, God had made known his will to the people by presenting the law to Moses. The white clothes of Jesus recall Moses shrouded in light as he speaks to God on the Mountain and as he receives the law from God (cf. Ex 34:29-35). Elijah and Moses, the two great authorities of the Old Testament, speak with Jesus. Moses represents the Law and Elijah the prophets. Luke says that they talked about the Death of Jesus in Jerusalem (Lk 9:31). Thus it was clear that the Old Testament, both the Law and the Prophets, taught that the way to glory is through the cross (Cf Is 53).
Mark 9:5-6: Peter likes what is happening but does not
understand.
Peter likes what is going on and wants this pleasing moment on the Mountain to last. He suggests building three tents. Mark says that Peter was afraid and did not know what he was saying, and Luke adds that the disciples were sleepy (Lk 9:32). For them, as it is for us, it is difficult to understand the Cross!
The description of the transfiguration begins with an affirmation: “Six days later”. What six days are these? Some scholars explain this phrase thus: Peter wants to build three tents, because it was the sixth day of the feast of tents. This was a very popular feast of six days that celebrated the gift of the Law of God and the forty years spent in the desert. To recall these forty years, the people had to spend six days in temporary tents. That is why it was called the Feast of the Tents. If they could not celebrate the whole six days, they had to celebrate at least the sixth day. The affirmation "six days later" would then be an allusion to the feast of the tents. That is why Peter recalls the duty of building tents. And spontaneously, he offers himself to build the tents. Thus Jesus,
Peter likes what is going on and wants this pleasing moment on the Mountain to last. He suggests building three tents. Mark says that Peter was afraid and did not know what he was saying, and Luke adds that the disciples were sleepy (Lk 9:32). For them, as it is for us, it is difficult to understand the Cross!
The description of the transfiguration begins with an affirmation: “Six days later”. What six days are these? Some scholars explain this phrase thus: Peter wants to build three tents, because it was the sixth day of the feast of tents. This was a very popular feast of six days that celebrated the gift of the Law of God and the forty years spent in the desert. To recall these forty years, the people had to spend six days in temporary tents. That is why it was called the Feast of the Tents. If they could not celebrate the whole six days, they had to celebrate at least the sixth day. The affirmation "six days later" would then be an allusion to the feast of the tents. That is why Peter recalls the duty of building tents. And spontaneously, he offers himself to build the tents. Thus Jesus,
Moses and Elijah would have been able to go on talking.
Mark 9:7: The voice from heaven shed light on the events.
As soon as Jesus is shrouded in glory, a voice from heaven says: "This is my Son, the Beloved. Listen to him!" The expression "Beloved Son" recalls the figure of the Servant Messiah, proclaimed by the prophet Isaiah (cf. Is 42:1). The expression "Listen to him" recalls the prophecy that promised the coming of the new Moses (cf. Dt 18:15). In Jesus, the prophecies of the Old Testament are being fulfilled. The disciples could not doubt this. The Christians of the 70’s could not doubt this. Jesus is truly the glorious Messiah, but the way to glory is through the cross, the second proclamation made in the prophecy of the Servant (Is 53:3-9). The glory of the Transfiguration is proof of this. Moses and Elijah confirm this. The Father is the guarantor of this. Jesus accepts this.
As soon as Jesus is shrouded in glory, a voice from heaven says: "This is my Son, the Beloved. Listen to him!" The expression "Beloved Son" recalls the figure of the Servant Messiah, proclaimed by the prophet Isaiah (cf. Is 42:1). The expression "Listen to him" recalls the prophecy that promised the coming of the new Moses (cf. Dt 18:15). In Jesus, the prophecies of the Old Testament are being fulfilled. The disciples could not doubt this. The Christians of the 70’s could not doubt this. Jesus is truly the glorious Messiah, but the way to glory is through the cross, the second proclamation made in the prophecy of the Servant (Is 53:3-9). The glory of the Transfiguration is proof of this. Moses and Elijah confirm this. The Father is the guarantor of this. Jesus accepts this.
Mark 9:8: Only Jesus and no one else!
Mark says that after the vision, the disciples see only Jesus and no one else. The emphasis on the affirmation that they see only Jesus suggests that from now on Jesus is the only revelation of God for us! For us Christians, Jesus, and only Jesus, is the key to understanding the complete meaning of the Old Testament.
Mark says that after the vision, the disciples see only Jesus and no one else. The emphasis on the affirmation that they see only Jesus suggests that from now on Jesus is the only revelation of God for us! For us Christians, Jesus, and only Jesus, is the key to understanding the complete meaning of the Old Testament.
Mark 9: 9-10: Knowing how to keep silent.
Jesus asks his disciples not to say anything to anyone until he would have risen from the dead, but the disciples do not understand him. Indeed, anyone who does not link suffering to the resurrection, does not understand the meaning of the Cross. Jesus is stronger than death.
Jesus asks his disciples not to say anything to anyone until he would have risen from the dead, but the disciples do not understand him. Indeed, anyone who does not link suffering to the resurrection, does not understand the meaning of the Cross. Jesus is stronger than death.
Mark 9:11-13: The return of the prophet Elijah.
The prophet Malachi had proclaimed that Elijah was to return to prepare the way of the Messiah (Ml 3:23-24). This same proclamation is also found in the book of Ecclesiastes (Ec 48:10). Then, how could Jesus be the Messiah if Elijah had not returned yet? That is why the disciples asked: “Why do the Scribes say that Elijah must come first?” (9:11). Jesus’ reply is clear: “I tell you that Elijah has come and they have treated him as they pleased, just as the scriptures say about him” (9: 13). Jesus was referring to John the Baptist who was murdered by Herod (Mt 17:13).
The prophet Malachi had proclaimed that Elijah was to return to prepare the way of the Messiah (Ml 3:23-24). This same proclamation is also found in the book of Ecclesiastes (Ec 48:10). Then, how could Jesus be the Messiah if Elijah had not returned yet? That is why the disciples asked: “Why do the Scribes say that Elijah must come first?” (9:11). Jesus’ reply is clear: “I tell you that Elijah has come and they have treated him as they pleased, just as the scriptures say about him” (9: 13). Jesus was referring to John the Baptist who was murdered by Herod (Mt 17:13).
c) Further information:
i) The Transfiguration: the change that takes place in the
practice of Jesus
In the middle of conflicts with the Pharisees and Herodians (Mk
8:11-21), Jesus leaves Galilee and goes to the region of Caesarea Philippi (Mk
8:27), where he begins to prepare his disciples. On the way, he puts a question
to them: "Who do people say I am?" (Mk 8:27) After listening to their
reply that they considered him the Messiah, Jesus begins to speak of his
passion and death (Mk 8:31). Peter reacts: "Heaven preserve you,
Lord!" (Mt 16:22). Jesus replies: "Get behind me, Satan! You are an
obstacle in my path, because you are thinking not as God thinks but as human
beings do!" (Mk 8:33) This was a moment of crisis for the disciples, who
still held on to the thought of a glorious Messiah (Mk 8:32-33; 9:32), not
understanding Jesus’ reply and trying to divert it in another direction. It was
close to the feast of the Tents, (cf Lk 9:33), when the popular messianic
expectation was much stronger than usual. Jesus goes up the mountain to pray
(Lk 9:28). He overcomes temptation by prayer. The revelation of the Kingdom was
different from that which the people imagined. The victory of the Servant would
take place through the death sentence (Is 50:4-9; 53:1-12). The cross appears
on the horizon, not just as a possibility, but as a certainty. From this moment
on a change takes place in Jesus’ practice. Here are some important signs of
this change:
Few miracles. At first there are many miracles. Now, beginning
with Mk 8:27; Mt 16:13 and Lk 9:18, miracles are almost an exception in Jesus’
activities.
Proclaiming the Passion. Earlier there was talk of the passion
as a remote possibility (Mk 3:6). Now there is constant talk of it (Mk 8:31;
9:9.31; 10:33.38).
Taking up the Cross. Earlier, Jesus proclaimed the imminent
coming of the Kingdom. Now he insists on watchfulness, the demands on those who
follow him and the necessity to take up one’s cross (Mt 16:24-26; 19:27-30;
24:42-51; 25:1-13; Mk 8:34; 10:28-31; Lk 9:23-26.57-62; 12:8-9.35-48; 14:25-33;
17:33; 18:28-30).
He teaches the disciples. Earlier he taught the people. Now he
is more concerned with the formation of his disciples. He asks them to choose
again (Jn 6:67) and begins to prepare them for the future mission. He goes out
of the city so as to stay with them and busy himself with their formation (Mk
8:27; 9:28. 30-35; 10:10.23.28-32; 11:11).
Different parables. Earlier, the parables revealed the mystery
of the Kingdom present in the activities of Jesus. Now the parables tend
towards the future judgement, at the end of time: the murderous vine growers
(Mt 21:33-46); the merciless servant (Mt 18:23-35), the workers of the eleventh
hour (Mt 20:1-16), the two sons (Mt 21:28-32), the wedding banquet (Mt
22:1-14), the ten talents (Mt 25:14-30).
Jesus accepts the will of the Father that is revealed in the new situation and decides to go to Jerusalem (Lk 9:51). He takes this decision with such determination as to frighten his disciples, who cannot understand what is going on (Mk 10:32; Lk 18:31-34). In the society of that time, the proclamation of the Kingdom as Jesus proclaimed it, could not be tolerated. So either he had to change or he had to die! Jesus did not change his proclamation. He continued to be faithful to the Father and to the poor. That is why he was sentenced to death!
Jesus accepts the will of the Father that is revealed in the new situation and decides to go to Jerusalem (Lk 9:51). He takes this decision with such determination as to frighten his disciples, who cannot understand what is going on (Mk 10:32; Lk 18:31-34). In the society of that time, the proclamation of the Kingdom as Jesus proclaimed it, could not be tolerated. So either he had to change or he had to die! Jesus did not change his proclamation. He continued to be faithful to the Father and to the poor. That is why he was sentenced to death!
ii) The transfiguration and the return of the prophet Elijah
In Mark’s Gospel, the scene of the transfiguration is linked to
the question of the return of the prophet Elijah (Mk 9:9-13). In those days,
people expected the return of the prophet Elijah and were not aware that Elijah
had already returned in the person of John the Baptist (Mk 9:13). The same
thing happens today. Many people live in expectation of the return of Jesus and
even write on the walls of cities: Jesus will return! They are not aware that
Jesus is already present in our lives. Every now and then, like an unexpected
flash of lightning, this presence of Jesus breaks out and shines, transforming
our lives. A question that each one us should ask is: Has my faith in Jesus
offered me a moment of transfiguration and intense joy? How have such moments
of joy given me strength in moments of difficulties?
6. The prayer of a Psalm: Psalm 27 (26)
The Lord is my light
Yahweh is my light and my salvation,
whom should I fear?
Yahweh is the fortress of my life,
whom should I dread?
When the wicked advance against me to eat me up,
they, my opponents, my enemies,
are the ones who stumble and fall.
whom should I fear?
Yahweh is the fortress of my life,
whom should I dread?
When the wicked advance against me to eat me up,
they, my opponents, my enemies,
are the ones who stumble and fall.
Though an army pitch camp against me,
my heart will not fear,
though war break out against me,
my trust will never be shaken.
my heart will not fear,
though war break out against me,
my trust will never be shaken.
One thing I ask of Yahweh,
one thing I seek:
to dwell in Yahweh's house all the days of my life,
to enjoy the sweetness of Yahweh,
to seek out his temple.
one thing I seek:
to dwell in Yahweh's house all the days of my life,
to enjoy the sweetness of Yahweh,
to seek out his temple.
For he hides me away under his roof on the day of evil,
he folds me in the recesses of his tent,
sets me high on a rock.
Now my head is held high above the enemies who surround me;
in his tent I will offer sacrifices of acclaim. I will sing,
I will make music for Yahweh.
he folds me in the recesses of his tent,
sets me high on a rock.
Now my head is held high above the enemies who surround me;
in his tent I will offer sacrifices of acclaim. I will sing,
I will make music for Yahweh.
Yahweh, hear my voice as I cry,
pity me, answer me!
Of you my heart has said,
'Seek his face!'
Your face, Yahweh, I seek;
do not turn away from me.
Do not thrust aside your servant in anger,
without you I am helpless.
Never leave me, never forsake me,
God, my Saviour.
Though my father and mother forsake me,
Yahweh will gather me up.
pity me, answer me!
Of you my heart has said,
'Seek his face!'
Your face, Yahweh, I seek;
do not turn away from me.
Do not thrust aside your servant in anger,
without you I am helpless.
Never leave me, never forsake me,
God, my Saviour.
Though my father and mother forsake me,
Yahweh will gather me up.
Yahweh, teach me your way,
lead me on the path of integrity because of my enemies;
do not abandon me to the will of my foes
- false witnesses have risen against me,
and are breathing out violence.
lead me on the path of integrity because of my enemies;
do not abandon me to the will of my foes
- false witnesses have risen against me,
and are breathing out violence.
This I believe: I shall see the goodness of Yahweh,
in the land of the living.
Put your hope in Yahweh,
be strong,
let your heart be bold,
put your hope in Yahweh.
in the land of the living.
Put your hope in Yahweh,
be strong,
let your heart be bold,
put your hope in Yahweh.
7. Final Prayer
Lord Jesus, we thank for the word that has enabled us to
understand better the will of the Father. May your Spirit enlighten our actions
and grant us the strength to practice that which your Word has revealed to us.
May we, like Mary, your mother, not only listen to but also practice the Word.
You who live and reign with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit forever
and ever. Amen.
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