Lectio
Luke 9:28b–36
Meditatio
“Master, it is good that we are here.…”
Luke places this radiant event in the context of prayer. Jesus invites his closest friends to come with him up Mount Tabor. For Jesus, the mountains are significant places of encounter with God, places of prayer and preaching: Olivet, Tabor, Calvary. Clearly, we are in the presence of mystery as Jesus’ face and garments are made luminous and glory shines around him. Moses and Elijah, who similarly had mountaintop experiences of God, are seen conversing with Jesus. As the prophets are leaving, Peter and the others catch a glimpse of them. Awestruck and incredulous, they want to set up tents, as if in some way they might capture the moment and enter more deeply into it.
Immediately a cloud (signifying the presence of God) casts a shadow over them and draws them within. The messianic significance of the cloud should not be overlooked. (See Ex 16:10; 19:9; 33:9; 1 Kgs 8:10–11). The privileged words the three disciples hear are significant for them and for us: “This is my chosen Son; listen to him.” Of all the recommendations or directives that could have been given, the disciples are told to listen!
The disciples did not earn or deserve this experience. It is a gift meant to strengthen and support their faith. Trials await them as they follow Jesus into Jerusalem, where he will face his passion. Later, they will be called to witness to what they have seen and heard, but now they need only listen.
Perhaps we can recall certain graced moments of prayer when the Lord consoled or reassured us with his presence and peace. It is good to silence our hearts and enter fully into these experiences since, like the disciples, we too will have to come down from the mountain and face times of trial and temptation. It is encouraging to remember, however, that the Lord is near not only on the mountaintops, but in the highways and byways of our earthly journey of life.
Oratio
Thank you, Lord, for the many ways you continue to reveal yourself to us. Your invitation to prayer and the gift of your divine presence dwelling in both word and sacrament, as well as in our hearts, continually renew and strengthen your Church on its pilgrim journey. Help me to listen more deeply to your inspirations. Let these illuminate and guide all my decisions and actions as I seek to conform my life to yours. May I enjoy the full vision of your glory one day in heaven with the angels and saints and all my loved ones!
Contemplatio
“Listen to him.”
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ORDINARY GRACE Weeks 18–34: Daily Gospel Reflections (By the Daughters of St. Paul)
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