My Dear Friends,

The Gospel of this Sunday tells us about the Transfiguration of Jesus
Christ which took place on a mountain in the presence of Peter, James, and John, his apostles. Jesus changed and became dazzlingly white in the presence of the apostles. As the event was going on, Moses and Elijah appeared discussing with Jesus about “his exodus that he was to accomplish in Jerusalem.” Puzzled by the event, Simon Peter exclaims “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah”.

Unquestionably, the reason of transfiguration of Jesus into His glory was so that the inner circle of His apostles could gain a greater understanding of His identity. The emergence of Moses and Elijah proofed that Jesus is the fulfilment of both the Law and Prophets. The identity of Jesus was confirmed further by God the Father’s approving testimony.

Trans-figuration as a word has two parts: a. ‘Trans’ means passing, crossing from one location to another. b. ‘Figuration’ means to shape, to form, to give a figure, appearance or how one looks. Therefore, transfiguration means change of appearance or figure.

Today, we are called as followers of Christ to be transfigured. That is to go through a change of features, like leaving behind our evil, sinful ways that are not Christ- like. The change will make people recognise Christ in us and experience the Christ- like qualities brought about by the change.

It demands sacrifice to leave all those ways that are not acceptable in the land of holiness which God wants us to reach. Do not be frightened about the risks you may think are involved in the change of life. Remember, we will succeed by the grace of God.