HOMILY ON THE FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATIONNOF THE LORD AUGUST 6 2022
Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14; Lk 9:28-36
Good morning dearest brothers and sisters in Christ, today being the 6th of August, the Holy Mother Church celebrates the Transfiguration of the Lord. A great Feast worth reflecting upon. The Latin root of the word transfiguration is “transfigurare” which means “change the shape of”. It is the complete change of form or appearance into a more beautiful or spiritual state. It is a word that is mostly used in the religious sphere. This term had been used to describe succinctly the experience of Jesus on the mountain in the presence of three disciples: Peter, James and John.
However, for a better understanding and appreciation of the essence of the Transfiguration of the Lord as narrated in the Gospel of Luke 9: 28-36, it is good for us to contextualize the narrative. This took place immediately after the experience at Cesarea Philippi. What happened? In Luke 9: 18-27, we are told about Jesus questioning his disciple about the knowledge of his identity by the people and themselves. We can verily remember the answers that we're given: some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, or one of the ancient prophets etc. We recall how Peter under the power and inspiration of God declared rightfully the identity of Jesus, and of which Jesus affirmed the source and its correctness. We can't easily forget the remonstration of Peter saying God forbid to the declaration of Jesus that the Son of Man will
Dearest brothers and sisters in Christ, the Transfiguration of the Lord eight days after became significant because it was obvious that the fear factor of the suffering, rejection, crucifixion and death of Jesus, which was to come did not allow the disciples to have a profound affirmation of the identity and mission of Jesus. It ran contrary to their understanding of a saviour. Hence, via the transfiguration, Jesus gave his disciples a glimpse of his coming glory so that they might be aware of the glory that would be theirs and go forward with confidence and courage in moments of trial and suffering, towards participating in that glory. St. Paul tells us that if we share his glory, we must also share his sufferings (Rom 8:17).
We are told that Jesus took Peter James and John up the mountain and he was transfigured. His face and cloth became sparkling white. A manifestation of divine encounter. On either side were Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets. The three tents alluded by Peter reminisced the feast of Tabernacles where the law was given to Moses on mount Sinai. This reflects Jesus as the Perfect law-giver and the perfect revelation of the Father. The clouds signified the presence of God who declared Jesus as the Beloved Son.
Friends in Christ, Just like the apostles whose faith was strengthened by the transfiguration of Jesus, we too on pilgrimage to our heavenly homeland are called to draw confidence and courage from the celebration of the feast of Transfiguration. For many who are passing through difficulties and sufferings so much so that it makes them cast doubt on the presence of God and wriggles their faith and steadfastness in God. The outcome of the feast of transfiguration reassures us of the glory that awaits us in Christ Jesus. Consequently, the need to submit ourselves to Jesus as our leader and guide following the mandate of the Father: listen to him (Lk 9:35)
Brothers and sisters in Christ, we too can continue to have this significant experience of the transfiguration of Jesus, witnessed by the apostles through our encounter with the word of God, through the sacraments and daily Christian living. Hence, a transfiguration should take place in us through our faith response to God; through our love and obedience to God. This entails leaving our past behind and making substantial sacrificial steps on the right path. Remember, No cross, no crown.
We pray that God will change and transform us and make our thoughts, desires, attitudes and actions configured to those of Christ.
Happy feast day to you all
Fr Remi osj
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