Listen To Him

 

Matthew 17: 1-9

The Transfiguration

17 After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. ² There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. ³ Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus.

⁴ Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.”

⁵ While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”

⁶ When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. ⁷ But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” ⁸ When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus.

⁹ As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them, “Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”

We get this glimpse of who Jesus is, the Son of God, to encourage us in our Lenten journey, just as the Apostles needed encouragement for what was yet to come: the capture of Jesus, his passion and death.  We know not what lies ahead in our lives, but certainly these days of Lent should find us making extra efforts to prepare and open our hearts to receive the graces of Easter.  The Evil One also uses this season to besiege us with all his might to deter us from this goal.  We need Tabor to remind and fortify us to  keep our eyes on Jesus and the mission he has given us.  May we not be distracted by the devil's wiles and temptations, but keep our eyes on the Transfigured Jesus, a preview of the Risen Jesus, and a preview of what awaits us if we remain faithful to him. 

 Bro. Rene

Lord Jesus: You shared the joy of your Transfiguration with Peter, James, and John. But when they heard our Father’s voice from the cloud, they were terrified. You touched them and told them not to be afraid. Lord Jesus, be with me when I am joyful and when I am afraid. Amen.

Rev. Jim Lackenmier, C.S.C.