The Transfiguration of Jesus
The Transfiguration, by Pedro Atanasio Bocanegra
Have you ever experienced an event so glorious and life-changing that you can’t help but wonder, “Why me?”
August 6, we join the Catholic Church in celebrating the Feast of the Transfiguration, an occurrence many call a perfect glimpse into Heaven.
There are three recordings of the miraculous incident which can be found in the Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke. I’m sure Peter, James and John were in shock and utter awe at the Son of Man’s revelation to them, which is said to have occurred on Mount Tabor.
We know all the apostles were accustomed to joining Jesus on his daily outings, which not only included miracles, but also more typical activities. So, we ask, why did He choose those three followers to experience his transfiguration?
Simply, God knows what we need.
He understands that some of us require more “proof” than others, while plenty of believers cling to Him with a childlike trust (Matthew 18:2). There must have been something unique that needed to be revealed to Peter, James and John so their hearts would more fully understand the essence of the Trinity.
We read in Matthew 17 that there was a complete change in Jesus’ appearance through brilliant light, an inconceivable cloud covering on the highest mountain in Galilee and a stark message from above proclaiming, “‘This is my beloved son.’”
As always, our Lord knew what was necessary and utilized the act to further His will. Later, these disciples would record their observations so the entire world might seek to comprehend His majesty.
Similarly, as we celebrate the feast day, let’s recall times when the Lord has revealed himself to us in unfathomable ways. If nothing comes to mind, pray you might witness His undoubtable presence in moments to come — don’t aim to test God, but allow Him to open your heart to experience his radiance.
The answer to your prayer will not be identical to the transfiguration, yet I hope a glimpse of His utmost power and beauty will change your heart (and faith) forever. We can’t predict his revelations to us, but it may be through the casting out of demons like Saint Mary Magdalene or the conversion of heart for a loved one, as it was for Saint Monica in Saint Augustine—God’s power is limitless.
Let’s remember, feast days aren’t thrown onto the Liturgical calendar frivolously; we are called to pause and allow God’s glory to impact our daily lives so we can continue to press on toward the prize that awaits us in Heaven (Philippians 3:14).
In celebrating the Transfiguration, we are called to acknowledge and honor Jesus’ divinity, revealed to us through the Immaculate Conception, Jesus’ time on Earth, and the Resurrection.
Each element of His life and death has the ability to impact our own faith story in a magnificent way.