The Transfiguration of Jesus

2nd Sunday of Lent (Year A)
Mt 17:1-9

On the Second Sunday of Lent each year, we have the Gospel account of the Transfiguration of Jesus. Jesus is transfigured before His three closest apostles; Peter, James and John. These three men experience an Epiphany moment on that mountaintop where Jesus shows Himself to them in all His glory. These three apostles not only get a glimpse of Jesus in all His glory, but they have a glimpse of what destiny lies in store for them.

This manifestation of Jesus, this transformation of Jesus in all His glory, is like a “Wake up” call for the three apostles and for us. It is a reminder of what our eventual relationship with Jesus should ultimately be in heaven. It’s a reminder to us that we are in need of change in our lives, and Lent is a time for us to become people of God, as God has intended.

Thus, Christ’s transfiguration is telling us that we, too, need change – not outwardly but inwardly, not physically but attitudinally, as the above story illustrates. Our attitudes and character determine the kind of person we are. As a wise dictum puts it: “Your character is your fate.”

This reminds me of a man who was intelligent and talented. One would think he would easily succeed. Being bright and gifted, he expected too much from his peers and subordinates in the office. Finding it hard to get along with them, he quit and had to look for another job.

After getting hired in another company, again his pride and poor PR got him into trouble. Unhappy and complaining about the “unbearable conditions,” he had to quit again. Eventually he ended up jobless; his poor wife had to do the bread-winning for the family.
The guy’s negative traits, in effect, caused the chain of setbacks which also aggravated a troubled marriage. His (negative) character led to his bad fate.

Similarly, our negative and counterproductive traits of laziness, dishonesty at work, disunity characterized by intrigues, destructive criticisms, and endless political squabbling at the cost of neglecting the basic services of the people can hinder progress.

This transfiguration, we receive a new vision in our lives, just like the apostles. We could now reevaluate our commitment because we receive a new motivation. The Lord wants to reveal His glory to us, His beloved disciples. Do we seek His presence with faith and reverence?