This is My beloved Son

In Mat. 17:1 ff, we read the account of the Transfiguration, a Feast we celebrate today. It is where Jesus Christ is taken up to Heaven from a high mountain. This miracle is witnessed by the Apostle, Peter and James and John his brother. "And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his garments became white as light." (v.2)

(v.5) He was still speaking, when lo, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him."

The Church has made the Transfiguration a "Feast" because this is a very important day - the culmination of Jesus public life. The disciples must have been fearful, at what was taking place on the mountain, Mt. Tabor. It was just six days after Jesus told his Disciples that he would be killed and be raised on the third day. They probably were apprehensive of what was to come.

So with Peter, James and John, they came to this mountain top, where Jesus became dazzlingly bright. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes were very white. And then Moses and Elijah appeared with Jesus. The disciples were in awe and Peter asked Jesus if perhaps they should make a dwelling for Moses, Elijah and for Him.

And then, this loud voice from heaven spoke to all: "This is my beloved Son, Listen to Him." And by what was said, they realized the Heavenly speaker was God the Father. What a beautiful verification that Jesus is indeed the Son of God.

We are often confused about who to listen to. Everyone is trying to tell us something. There is altogether too much said and spoken, far more than we can take in. But when Jesus speaks, all should listen, because He is the Son of God. What Jesus has told us, is found in the New Testament of the Holy Scriptures. We should read Holy Scripture daily. No, I don't do it that frequently either, but I should! For how else are we going to find out what He has said, when we do not refresh our memories? What He has to say is important since our following Him leads us to everlasting life.

The Scriptures are "Living" in the sense that the Holy Spirit teaches us what to do. In John 14:26, ... "the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you." So every time you read Holy Scripture, the interpretation you discern within you comes from the Holy Spirit and you will learn from Him. You will reach a better understanding of what Our Lord is saying to you. That is why it is so important for all to read Holy Scriptures regularly. This is how we are taught what we are to do. So on this beautiful feast, let us revel in the Glory of Our Lord, knowing that He is, indeed, the Son of God! How precious for us, people, that He came to earth to share our life. 

May the Lord bless you and keep you!
Fred Schaeffer, OFS
09/24/2008 republished 08/06/2020

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