By the Faithful Disciple
GROW AS A DISCIPLE
According to the dictionary definition, to be transfigured is to “transform into something more beautiful or elevated.” This is what we see happening in Matthew’s Gospel today: Jesus takes his closest disciples up the mountain and there he is transformed – he is transfigured – before them: “His face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light.” He is also joined by Moses and Elijah as a sign that he is the fulfillment of God’s promises of old. Jesus completes the old covenant that God made with his people and brings us the new covenant of salvation. The Transfiguration parallels the Baptism of the Lord in that we once again hear God speaking from the heavens to say, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” But during the Transfiguration, God adds the words, “Listen to him.” That’s a command not just for his disciples there on the mountain but for us today as well.
GO EVANGELIZE
In elementary school, we were often reminded to listen.
I remember one teacher who made a point to impress upon our class that listening is different from hearing. It is easy to hear, but to listen, you need to take the time to understand what is being said. In his letter today, Peter is urging us to listen to the prophetic message of Jesus. He says, “You will do well to be attentive to it” and then compares doing so to being “a lamp shining in a dark place.” The world today can be a very dark place, but we don’t have to be content to live in the shadows. By following Jesus’ example and commands, we can bring light – along with hope and joy – to our corner of the world. Sometimes that takes courage, though. It might involve making uncomfortable or unpopular choices, but Peter promises that the “day will dawn.” When that happens, we will undoubtedly see the fruits of our good works in our efforts to build God’s kingdom.
PRAY
This week, let us pray in both words and actions as Jesus taught us. If the Lord’s Prayer is not already part of your daily prayer routine, try incorporating it this week. Then, look for ways to follow in the footsteps of Jesus by reaching out to someone who may appreciate a phone call or a visit.