Working With the Word

Focusing the Gospel

Key words and phrases: his face changed, going to accomplish in Jerusalem, saw his glory, good that we are here

To the point: During prayer Jesus’ “face changed.” This phrase is biblical language indicating that Jesus himself changed. The transfiguration is a fleet- ing glimpse of the glory of his risen life. To come to this glory, however, Jesus could not remain on the mountain, but had to continue his journey to Jerusalem and the Cross. During prayer we, too, encounter God in such a way that we are invited to change. We, too, are emboldened to follow our life journey and embrace the Cross. And we, too, will be glorified. Now and forever.

Connecting the Gospel …

… to the First Reading: On the mountain of transfiguration the disciples witnessed the glory of Jesus’ identity as the “chosen Son.” We, too, are destined for glory when Christ will “change our lowly body to conform with his glorified body” (Second Reading).

… to experience: We often have glimpses of glory: in a remarkable sunset, in the shining face of a delighted child, in the radiant joy of new parents. Like the transfiguration, these glimpses of glory encourage and strengthen us to continue the journey of life toward eternal glory.

**From Saint Louis University