The Transfiguration

 

Dear Parishioners,

Just as the 1^st Sunday of Lent annually begins with Jesus’ 40 days in the desert confronting Satan, the 2nd Sunday of Lent each year concerns the Transfiguration of Jesus. Thus, we should consider its significance.

Jesus is with his inner circle: Peter, James and John. They alone accompany Him during certain important events in Jesus’ ministry (the Agony in the Garden, the healing of Jairus’ daughter). On this high mountain Jesus is seen in glory. His face and His clothes were brilliant, perhaps anticipating His future Resurrection from the dead. The appearance of two Old Testament figures, Moses and Elijah, shows Jesus in connection to the Law and the Prophets, which Jesus stated that he came to fulfill (see Mt. 5: 17).

Then comes the overshadowing cloud and the voice from on high. The other time when such an occurrence transpires is Jesus’ Baptism where the voice of the Father was heard. The image of an overshadowing is also reminiscent of when the Blessed Virgin Mary was overshadowed by the Holy Spirit at the Annunciation. The presence of the Holy Trinity indeed seems plausible.

Why did this event happen? Why do we consider it specifically during Lent?

One can certainly argue that Jesus wanted to strengthen the faith of these apostles prior to the scandal of the cross. Jesus is going to be tortured and killed. Peter would deny Him and the other disciples, except John, would flee the scene. Yet, He now appears in glory as He will post-Resurrection. The Father’s voice reassures and directs them: This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him. We already know that the apostles were weak, flawed men. It would only be with the fortitude that they were given by the Holy Spirit that they later would be able to preach, teach and baptize in the name of the Lord Jesus to the various peoples.

During this Lenten season we can become discouraged. We can sometimes make Lenten resolutions and then fail to carry them out. Additionally, we can go through times of dryness in prayer and question whether anything is happening or if our prayers even matter. We can also battle temptation. It is for times like these when the Transfiguration is significant. Jesus appears in glory. He is identified as the Son of God—not just some ordinary human being or prophet. He indicates a future Resurrection from the dead. He provides hope and increases faith.

Like Peter, James and John, sometimes God might even provide for us supernatural religious experiences during our life and faith journeys to strengthen us. Many times during the course of my priesthood various people have related to me occasions when God was inexplicably present for them through signs, events or even miracles. I have even had a few of these experiences personally. Don’t ever underestimate what God can do for any of us at any time!

As we continue our personal 40 day journey with Jesus into the desert this Lent, realize that He accompanies us the entire time. Sometimes, He may even lead us up to mountain to experience things beyond expectation and comprehension.

Fr. Ed Namiotka

Pastor