Each year, the Second Sunday of Lent is marked by the account of the Transfiguration. This passage invites us to contemplate Jesus in His glory, illuminating the path of faith for His disciples. Yet, this spectacular event occurs shortly after a moment of doubt: Peter had just recognized Jesus as the Messiah but refused to accept that this same Messiah would have to suffer and die. The Transfiguration sheds light on this reality: Christ’s glory passes through the cross, and we are called to follow Him on this path.
A Pivotal Moment for the Disciples
Shortly before the Transfiguration, in Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asked His disciples a fundamental question:
“But who do you say that I am?” (Lk 9:20)
Peter, inspired by faith, answered without hesitation:
“The Christ of God.”
However, when Jesus revealed that His mission involved suffering and death, Peter strongly objected. He could not conceive of a Messiah who would be humiliated.
The Revelation on the Mountain
Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up the mountain to pray. There, before their astonished eyes, His face becomes radiant, and His clothing dazzling white. At His side appear Moses and Elijah, figures representing the Law and the Prophets, speaking with Him about His departure (Lk 9:31), meaning His coming Passion in Jerusalem.
This moment of glory foreshadows the Resurrection, but it also confirms that Jesus must first endure suffering to enter into His glory. The voice of the Father, coming from a cloud, confirms to the disciples:
“This is my Son, the Chosen One; listen to Him.” (Lk 9:35)
To Reflect On
- Am I truly willing to listen to Christ, even when His call challenges or unsettles me?
- Do I struggle to accept that faith also involves trials and sacrifices?
- How can I reflect Christ’s light in my life, even in the face of difficulties?
From Light to Commitment
Faced with this extraordinary vision, Peter, still overwhelmed, suggests building three tents, as if to prolong the moment. But the Transfiguration is not an end in itself—it is a revelation that illuminates the path to follow.
The disciples must descend from the mountain and continue to accompany Jesus to Jerusalem, where He will fully accomplish His mission.
Likewise, we are called to carry Christ’s light into our daily lives, to walk with trust, even when the road ahead seems uncertain.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, open my eyes to Your light and my heart to Your Word. Help me to walk in faith along the path You set before me, even when it seems difficult. May my life be a testimony to Your glory.
Amen.
Biblical References
- Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18
- Philippians 3:17 – 4:1
- Luke 9:28b-36
Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke
At that time, Jesus took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray.
While He was praying, the appearance of His face changed, and His clothing became dazzling white.
And behold, two men were talking with Him: Moses and Elijah, appearing in glory.
They spoke about His departure, which He was about to accomplish in Jerusalem.
Peter and his companions were overcome with sleep, but becoming fully awake, they saw His glory and the two men standing with Him.
As they were leaving, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here! Let us make three tents: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
But he did not know what he was saying.
While he was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud.
Then a voice came from the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, the Chosen One; listen to Him.”
After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. The disciples kept silent and told no one at that time what they had seen.
To read the full daily readings, visit Vatican News – March 16, 2025.
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