To Transfigure

Fr. Lawrence Jagdfeld, O.F.M., Administrator

The word "transfigure" has two definitions: 1.To transform the outward appearance of something; to convert into a different form, state or substance. 2. To glorify or exalt something or someone. Both definitions are apropos for today's Feast. Jesus' outward appearance is changed before his disciples. The voice from heaven confirms that he is also glorified or exalted.

This Feast of the Lord also speaks to us and our vocation. We are each called to the universal vocation of holiness. That holiness is achieved by lives that transfigure our world. Our personal conversion is meant to change the world, to alter its form, its state, its substance. Each day we are confronted with various situations which beg our response. The Gospel tells us that the world will know that we are Jesus' disciples by our love for one another. Each time we respond with love, we transfigure the world. Each time, the voice from heaven exalts us as we glorify God by our lives.

The Gospel relates that Peter wanted to set up tents on the mountain; he wanted to stay on top of the mountain. However, Jesus makes it clear that they had to return to the every day, the ordinary, to interaction with their neighbors and with their world. It is only there that we can effect its transfiguration.