The Transfiguration of the Lord

The Transfiguration of Jesus is a special event in the Bible. It happened on a mountain. Jesus took three of His disciples with Him: Peter, James, and John. They went up the mountain to pray.

While Jesus was praying, something amazing happened. His face began to shine like the sun. His clothes became white as light. The disciples were very surprised and did not know what to say.

Then, Moses and Elijah appeared and talked with Jesus. They were important figures from the Old Testament. They talked about what Jesus was going to do in Jerusalem. This showed that Jesus was fulfilling the scriptures.

Finally, a bright cloud covered them. A voice came from the cloud. It said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.” The disciples were very afraid and fell to the ground. Jesus came and touched them. He told them not to be afraid. When they looked up, they saw only Jesus.

The Feast of the Transfiguration is observed annually on August 6.

Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain. They went to pray together. These three disciples were close to Jesus. He wanted to show them something special.

As Jesus prayed, His appearance changed. His face shone bright like the sun. His clothes became dazzling white. The disciples were amazed and did not know what to do.

Then, Moses and Elijah appeared. They talked with Jesus. These two were important figures from the past. They discussed what Jesus would soon do in Jerusalem.

A bright cloud covered them. A voice came from the cloud. It said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.” The disciples were very afraid and fell to the ground. Jesus touched them and said, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” When they looked up, only Jesus was there.

The Transfiguration gives us a taste of heaven. It shows what it will be like to see Jesus in His glory. On the mountain, the disciples saw Jesus shining bright. This reminds us that we will see God’s full glory in heaven.

Right now, we struggle to understand God completely. Our human minds cannot grasp all of His greatness. The world around us is full of distractions and doubts. We often find it hard to feel close to God.

The Transfiguration gives us hope. It shows that one day we will see God face to face. We will experience His glory fully. This will be a joy beyond anything we can imagine now.

The apostles’ experience on Mount Tabor is like our future in heaven. They saw Jesus in His bright glory. In heaven, we will see Jesus in His full glory, too. This encourages us to keep our faith strong as we wait for that day.

The Transfiguration calls us to live holy lives. Jesus showed His glory to Peter, James, and John. This reminds us to seek holiness every day. We are called to follow Jesus and live like Him.

We can be changed by meeting Christ. Each time we pray or receive the Eucharist, we come closer to Him. These moments help us grow in faith. They make us more like Jesus.

The Eucharist and prayer are very important. They connect us to Jesus. When we receive the Eucharist, we take Jesus into our hearts. Prayer keeps us close to Him every day.

As we become more like Christ, we reflect His light. Others can see Jesus in us. Our actions and words can show His love. By living holy lives, we bring Christ’s light to the world.

• First Reading – Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14: In a heavenly court, the Ancient One, clothed in splendor, presides with countless attendants. A Son of man arrives on the clouds, receiving eternal dominion and kingship, served by all nations and languages.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 97: The earth rejoices, and the islands are glad as the LORD, exalted above all gods, reigns in justice and judgment. His glory is seen by all, and even the mountains melt before Him.
• Second Reading – 2 Peter 1:16-19: We, the apostles, witnessed Jesus’ majesty and heard God’s declaration. Trust the reliable prophetic message as a guiding light until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.
• Gospel – Matthew 17:1-9 (Year A) or Mark 9:2-10 (Year B) or Luke 9:28b-36 (Year C): Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain where He is transfigured before them, shining like the sun, with His clothes becoming white as light. Moses and Elijah appear, speaking with Jesus. Peter suggests building three tents, but a bright cloud covers them, and a voice from heaven declares Jesus as God’s Son. Jesus instructs them not to tell anyone until He rises from the dead. This event is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.

• The Transfiguration of Jesus: The gospel describe the moment when Jesus is transfigured before His disciples on a mountain, revealing His divine glory and reinforcing His identity as the Son of God.
• The Presence of Moses and Elijah: During the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appear and speak with Jesus, representing the Law and the Prophets, and affirming Jesus’ fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies and His authority.
• Peter’s Response and Revelation: Peter’s reaction to the Transfiguration shows his awe and desire to commemorate the event, highlighting the disciples’ struggle to fully comprehend Jesus’ divine nature.
• God’s Voice from the Cloud: God’s voice affirms Jesus as His beloved Son and commands the disciples to listen to Him, underscoring Jesus’ unique role as God’s chosen Messiah and the authoritative source of divine revelation.
• Secrecy and Timing: Jesus instructs the disciples not to reveal the Transfiguration until after His resurrection, indicating the importance of timing and the gradual unveiling of His identity and mission.
• Confirmation of Jesus’ Identity: The Transfiguration serves as a significant confirmation of Jesus’ identity as the Son of God, preparing the disciples for the challenges ahead and strengthening their faith.

See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord.

Mountain Time

This engaging lesson plan focuses on mountains in the Bible, providing youth with a deeper understanding of their significance in scripture. Exploring the reasons why mountains are often associated with encountering God, the lesson encourages reflection on how we, too, can reach spiritual “mountaintop” experiences in our lives. Through interactive discussions, we’ll delve into notable mountain references in the Bible, including the Transfiguration. By the end of this lesson, young minds will gain a fresh perspective on the spiritual symbolism of mountains and be inspired to seek their own encounters with the divine in the highs and lows of life’s journey.

Ups and Downs Lesson Plan

This reflection on the Transfiguration offers valuable insight for youth to contemplate the ebbs and flows of life. The event of Jesus’ radiant transformation on the mountain serves as a poignant reminder that we all experience highs and lows. At times, we find ourselves in moments of great joy and spiritual fulfillment, akin to being on the mountaintop. However, just like the disciples who eventually had to descend from the mountain, we too must face the inevitable challenges and trials that come our way. This lesson encourages young hearts to embrace both the peaks and valleys of life’s journey, understanding that every experience contributes to our growth and ultimately draws us closer to God.

The Mystical Transfiguration of Christ

A homily from Bishop Robert Barron. The story of the Transfiguration of Christ has captivated Christians for centuries, representing a profound mystical experience within the New Testament. This event portrays the encounter with spiritual realities in the midst of the ordinary, revealing the awe-inspiring beauty of the divine realm beyond the ordinary world. The term “mystical” denotes a personal connection with God, signifying a profound encounter with the person of God. The Transfiguration serves as a powerful testament to the extraordinary nature of the spiritual reality, far surpassing the ordinary experiences of life.

Why Does the Transfiguration Matter?

A reflection from Scott Hahn. While the Feast of the Transfiguration may not be as widely celebrated as Christmas or Easter, it holds essential aspects deserving of closer examination. In this episode of The Road to Emmaus, Scott Hahn delves into the significance of the Transfiguration and its enigmatic teachings, present in all three synoptic Gospels. By unpacking the meaning behind this event, he sheds light on its importance and relevance. Through his insightful analysis, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the Transfiguration and the profound impact it holds for the Christian faith.

A Glorious Revelation of Divine Majesty

The accounts of Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14, and 2 Peter 1:16-19, intertwined with the Transfiguration event, collectively present a majestic revelation of God’s glory and His divine plan for humanity.

In Daniel 7:9-10, the prophet describes a vision of God’s heavenly court, where He sits in judgment, surrounded by myriads of angels. This awe-inspiring image resonates with the Transfiguration scene, where Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John, and His divine nature is revealed in radiant glory. Both passages portray the heavenly realm’s grandeur, affirming Jesus’ identity as the Son of God.

Daniel 7:13-14 foretells the coming of the “Son of Man,” who will be given dominion and an everlasting kingdom. This prophetic vision finds its fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ, who, on the mountaintop, was acknowledged by the voice from heaven as the beloved Son of God. The Transfiguration confirms Jesus’ authority as the divine Messiah, destined to reign eternally over God’s kingdom.

In 2 Peter 1:16-19, the apostle Peter reflects on his eyewitness experience of the Transfiguration. He testifies to the “majestic glory” of Christ and the Father’s affirmation, solidifying the prophetic word and our faith in Him. The Transfiguration serves as a “lamp shining in a dark place,” illuminating the truth of Jesus’ divinity and the hope of His second coming. Peter’s testimony encourages us to hold fast to the prophetic word, just as the Transfiguration solidified the disciples’ faith in Jesus’ divine nature.

Glimpse of Divine Glory

The Transfiguration accounts in Matthew 17:1-9, Mark 9:2-10, and Luke 9:28b-36 reveal the divine nature of Jesus Christ. On a mountain, His appearance changed, shining brightly with His garments dazzling white. The presence of Moses and Elijah emphasizes Christ as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, connecting the Old and New Testaments.

This event invites us to seek moments of encounter with God, transforming our understanding of Christ’s identity and purpose. God’s voice affirming Jesus as His beloved Son compels us to listen to His teachings and follow His example of love and humility.

After the Transfiguration, the descent back to everyday life symbolizes our journey in the world, where we face challenges and trials. Empowered by this transformative experience, we are called to share Christ’s light and love with others, guiding them towards salvation. The Transfiguration inspires us to carry the radiance of Christ’s presence into a world in need of hope and redemption.

• What emotions do you think Peter, James, and John experienced when they saw Jesus in his glory? How might you have reacted if you were in their shoes?
• The Transfiguration revealed Jesus’ divine nature and affirmed His identity as the Son of God. How does this revelation impact your understanding of Jesus’ role in your life and the world?
• God the Father proclaims Jesus as His beloved Son. How does this declaration influence your relationship with God and your perception of Jesus as a Savior?
• Mountains are often seen as places of encounter with God in the Bible. Reflect on moments in your life where you have felt close to God, akin to being on a spiritual “mountaintop.” How did those experiences impact your faith journey?
• Moses and Elijah were present, representing the Law and the Prophets. How do you see the connection between the Old Testament and the fulfillment of God’s plan in Jesus Christ?
• Like Peter, who wanted to build tents for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah, we may sometimes desire to hold on to special spiritual experiences. How can we learn to embrace these moments while also recognizing the importance of returning to our daily lives and serving others?
• The voice from heaven instructed the disciples to “listen to Him” (referring to Jesus). How can we actively listen to Jesus in our daily lives and follow His teachings more closely?
• This event served as a source of encouragement and affirmation for the disciples. How can this event inspire and strengthen your faith when facing challenges or uncertainties?
• Jesus revealed His glory to the disciples. How can we be mindful of seeing God’s glory in everyday moments, even in the ordinary and mundane?
• The descent from the mountain signifies returning to the world with a renewed sense of purpose. How can you carry the light of Christ from your spiritual experiences into your interactions with others and your daily activities?

• Christ Be Our Light
• Christ Whose Glory Fills the Skies
• Glory and Praise to Our God
• God of Wonders
• How Can I Keep From Singing
• Jesus Christ You Are My Life
• In the Day of the Lord
• Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory
• Lord Let Your Face Shine on Us
• Lord When Your Glory Appears
• Our God Is Here
• Shine
• Shine Jesus Shine
• Sing to the Mountains
• Sing with all the Saints in Glory
• Transfiguration

What is the Transfiguration of Jesus?

The Transfiguration of Jesus is when His appearance changed, and He shone bright. This happened on a mountain with His disciples Peter, James, and John.

Why is the Transfiguration of Jesus important?

The Transfiguration of Jesus shows His glory and gives a glimpse of heaven. It also confirms that He is God’s Son.

Who appeared with Jesus during the Transfiguration?

Moses and Elijah appeared with Jesus during the Transfiguration. They talked with Him about His mission.

What did the voice from the cloud say during the Transfiguration of Jesus?

The voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.”

Where did the Transfiguration of Jesus take place?

The Transfiguration of Jesus took place on a high mountain. The exact location is not certain, but it is often believed to be Mount Tabor.

Who witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus?

Peter, James, and John witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus. They were three of His closest disciples.

What happened to Jesus’ appearance during the Transfiguration?

During the Transfiguration, Jesus’ face shone like the sun, and His clothes became dazzling white.

What is the message of the Transfiguration of Jesus?

The message of the Transfiguration of Jesus is that He is the Son of God. It also shows the promise of seeing God’s glory in heaven.

How does the Transfiguration of Jesus encourage Christians?

The Transfiguration of Jesus encourages Christians by giving them hope. It shows that they will see God’s glory one day and calls them to live holy lives.

When is the Feast of the Transfiguration celebrated?

The Feast of the Transfiguration is celebrated on August 6th each year. It is a day to remember and reflect on this important event.

What are the Mass readings for the Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord?

The Catholic Mass readings for Tuesday August 6, 2024 are:
First Reading – Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14: The Glorious Vision of the Son of Man
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 97: Rejoice, for the LORD is King!
Second Reading – 2 Peter 1:16-19: The Truth of Christ’s Majesty
Gospel – Matthew 17:1-9 (Year A) or Mark 9:2-10 (Year B) or Luke 9:28b-36 (Year C): The Transfiguration of Jesus

The Transfiguration of Jesus is an important event in Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and Luke. Jesus took three of His disciples, Peter, James, and John, up a high mountain to pray. While they were praying, Jesus’ appearance changed. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became dazzling white. This surprised the disciples and filled them with awe.

During this event, two important figures from the Old Testament, Moses and Elijah, appeared. They talked with Jesus about His mission in Jerusalem. The disciples were amazed and did not know what to say.

A bright cloud then covered them, and a voice came from the cloud. The voice said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.” The disciples were very afraid and fell to the ground. Jesus came and touched them, telling them not to be afraid. When they looked up, they saw only Jesus.

The Transfiguration of Jesus gives us a glimpse of His glory and the promise of heaven. It encourages us to keep our faith strong and live holy lives. By praying and receiving the Eucharist, we can grow closer to Jesus and reflect His light to others.

Learn more about the Transfiguration of Jesus. Reflect on its meaning and how it can impact your life. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. By understanding this event, we can grow in our faith and bring Jesus’ light to the world.