Glory Revealed

Gospel 

Matthew 17:1-9

1 Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 2 And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. 3 And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him. 4 Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, “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.” 5 While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” 8 And when the disciples raised their eyes, they saw no one else but Jesus alone. 9 As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, “Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”

Introduction

Matthew 17:1-9 tells the story of the Transfiguration, one of the most awe-inspiring moments in the life of Jesus. 

On a high mountain, Jesus reveals His divine glory to three of His closest disciples—Peter, James, and John—in a radiant display that forever changes their understanding of who He is. This passage invites us into a sacred moment where heaven meets earth and the identity of Jesus is powerfully affirmed.

Historical Background

The event of the Transfiguration takes place after a period of Jesus’ teaching and miracles. The chosen disciples are led up a mountain, a location often associated in Scripture with divine encounters. 

The presence of Moses and Elijah, two prominent figures from Israel’s history, connects the law and the prophets to Jesus, underscoring the continuity of God's plan. In a time when Roman rule over Israel brought uncertainty, this moment reassures the disciples of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness throughout history.

Theological Context

The Transfiguration is more than a display of divine power—it is a revelation of Jesus’ unique identity as the Son of God. The voice from the cloud, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him,” calls for faith and obedience. 

Moses and Elijah’s presence signifies that Jesus fulfills both the law and the prophets. This passage affirms Christ’s central role in God’s redemptive work and encourages believers to fix their eyes on Him as the source of salvation and truth.

Learning Lessons

The Father’s command to “listen to him” reminds us to prioritize Christ’s teachings in our lives. Though we may not see what the disciples saw, we can seek to experience God’s presence and glory in our own journey.

The appearance of Moses and Elijah points to God’s faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises in unexpected ways. The disciples were afraid, but Jesus touched them and said, “Rise, and have no fear.” His presence gives us courage for the challenges ahead.

Reflection for the Day

Today, let us pause and imagine ourselves on that mountain with Jesus. What fears or uncertainties do we carry? Are we listening for God’s voice amid the noise of daily life? 

The Transfiguration assures us that Jesus is truly the Son of God, worthy of our trust and devotion. As we reflect on this mystery, may we seek moments of awe and surrender, allowing God’s glory to transform our hearts and perspectives.

Poem

Light on the Mountain

Upon a silent mount we stand,

Shadows fade at His command.

Radiant glory, pure and bright,

Turns our darkness into light.

Moses, Elijah by His side,

God’s own promise, heaven’s guide.

Listen, child, to Christ the Son—

A journey changed, a race begun.

Prayer

Gracious Lord Jesus,

Thank You for revealing Your glory and love on the mountain. Help us to listen to Your voice and trust Your guidance, even when we are afraid. Fill us with courage to follow You faithfully and to seek Your presence every day. May Your light transform our hearts and lead us closer to the Father’s will.

Amen.

Pericope

V: Jesus, the Kingdom, and the Church

THE TRANSFIGURATION OF JESUS / THE COMING OF ELIJAH

Matthew 17:1-8/9-13

Gospel Acclamation

From the shining cloud the Father’s voice is heard: This is my beloved Son, hear him.

Source: Conversation with Copilot 

Riches of Glory

 

May the eyes of your hearts be enlightened, 

that you may know what is 

the hope that belongs to His call, 

what are the riches of glory 

in His inheritance among the holy ones. 

(Ephesians 1:18)

Paul emphasizes the need for spiritual insight. He prays that the believers’ hearts be enlightened, suggesting that understanding God’s truths requires more than intellectual knowledge; it requires a transformation of the heart. Understanding the hope of our calling can provide us with strength and encouragement, especially during difficult times.

Paul speaks of the glorious inheritance that believers have. This inheritance is not just material wealth but includes the spiritual blessings and eternal life promised to us. Our faith journey is not meant to be solitary; we are part of a larger body of believers who share in this inheritance.

Reflecting on these lessons can deepen our faith and help us live with greater purpose and assurance. 

In the light of His grace, our hearts find sight,

Enlightened by truth, we embrace the night.

Hope calls us forth, with a voice so clear,

To the riches of glory, drawing us near.

In the depths of His love, we find our worth,

A treasure eternal, beyond this earth.

His inheritance vast, in saints we see,

A promise of life, eternally free.

Together we stand, as one holy band,

United in faith, by His guiding hand.

In the fellowship sweet, our spirits soar,

Sharing the riches, forevermore.

With hearts full of hope, we journey on,

Guided by light, till the break of dawn.

In His glorious riches, we find our song,

A melody of grace, where we belong.

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude, seeking the enlightenment of our spirits. Open the eyes of our hearts, Lord, that we may see the hope to which You have called us. Fill us with the knowledge of Your glorious inheritance, the riches You have promised to Your holy people.

Guide us in our journey, that we may walk in the light of Your grace, embracing the hope and love You offer. Unite us as a community of believers, sharing in the eternal treasures of Your kingdom. May we find strength and encouragement in Your promises, living each day with purpose and faith.

In Jesus' holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: Unity of the Church in Christ

THE CHURCH AS CHRIST'S BODY

Ephesians 1:15-23

First Reading | Ephesians 1:15-23

15 Brothers and sisters: Hearing of your faith in the Lord Jesus and of your love for all the holy ones, 16 do not cease giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation resulting in knowledge of him. 18 May the eyes of your hearts be enlightened, that you may know what is the hope that belongs to his call, what are the riches of glory in his inheritance among the holy ones, 19 and what is the surpassing greatness of his power for us who believe, in accord with the exercise of his great might, 20 which he worked in Christ, raising him from the dead and seating him at his right hand in the heavens, 21 far above every principality, authority, power, and dominion, and every name that is named not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And he put all things beneath his feet and gave him as head over all things to the Church, 23 which is his Body, the fullness of the one who fills all things in every way. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Live Out the Glory of God's Kingdom

God's Kingdom is a Kingdom for all ages, 

and His dominion endures through all generations.

PSALM 45:13

Jesus said, “You will see greater things than this. Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see the sky opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” (Jn 1:50-51)

Today, the Lord makes known to you His might and the glorious splendor of His Kingdom (Ps 145:11). Discourse of the glory of God's Kingdom and speak of His might (Ps 145:12). 

The angel of the Lord shall take you in spirit to a great high mountain. It gleamed with the splendor of God. Its radiance was like that of a precious stone. It had a massive, high wall, with twelve gates where twelve angels were stationed. There were three gates facing east, three north, three south, and three west. The wall had twelve courses of stones as its foundation. (Rev 21:9-14)

God shall dwell with you. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth (Ps 145:18). God wants the best for you. He shall build you a very costly house in the most expensive place.

The Lord is just in all His ways and holy in all His works (Ps 145:17). Remember that to refuse passing pleasures is worth gaining eternal joy. A reward on earth lasts only as long as we live, but a heavenly reward lasts for eternity. Consider this as you make life choices. Organize well your knowledge, ideas, or experience as you live out the glory of God's kingdom in the world.

Published:

August 24, 2023, 9:03 AM

Declare the Glory of God!

The heavens declare the glory of God, 

and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.

PSALM 19:2

Father in heaven, Your glory in Christ is upon me and I am fully experiencing the greatness of Your handiwork. Thank You so much for all the great and awesome works that You continue to do over our lives making our joy truly full and complete. 

Each day, Your word comes with so much power. Power that reveals to me and give me knowledge on what I must do in accordance with Your will and purpose. Your wisdom and knowledge is far beyond the reach of men. It is only by Your love and grace that You impart knowledge so that I will be able to know the next step that I must do. May Your wondrous deeds and works bring me to places where I have never been, giving us the opportunity and allowing us to travel the whole world. 

Indeed, You are glorious in all Your works! It has always been and will always be Your hand that works for the good of me. Each moment of my life rests upon Your mighty hands and I am very thankful that despite my weaknesses and sins, Your love still prevails over me. 

All glory and honor are Yours now and forever through Jesus Christ Your Son, who lives and reigns with You together with the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.

Great is the Glory of the Lord!

All the kings of the earth shall give thanks to you, O Lord, 

when they hear the words of your mouth; and they shall sing 

of the ways of the Lord: “Great is the glory of the Lord.”

PSALM 138:4-5

As I watched: Thrones were set up and the Ancient One took his throne. His clothing was snow bright, and the hair on his head as white as wool; his throne was flames of fire, with wheels of burning fire. A surging stream of fire flowed out from where he sat; Thousands upon thousands were ministering to him, and myriads upon myriads attended him. The court was convened, and the books were opened. (Dn 7:9-10)

As the visions during the night continued, I saw One like a son of man coming, on the clouds of heaven; when He reached the Ancient One and was presented before Him, He received dominion, glory, and kingship; nations and peoples of every language serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away; His kingship shall not be destroyed. (Dn 7:13-14)

Jesus said, “You will see greater things than this. Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” (Jn 1:50-51) Here is a true child. There is no duplicity in him.” (Jn 1:47)

If one has duplicity or guile it means they are two-faced and cunning. They are skilled in the art of deception. This is a dangerous and deadly quality to have. But to say the opposite, that one has “no duplicity” or “no guile” is a way of saying that they are honest, straightforward, sincere, transparent and real.

Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel! (Jn 1:49) I will give thanks to You, O Lord, with all my heart, for You have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing Your praise; I will worship at Your holy temple and give thanks to Your name. Because of Your kindness and Your truth; for You have made great above all things Your name and your promise. When I called, you answered me; you built up strength within me. (Ps 138:1-3)

Glory in God's Holy Name!

Glory in His holy name; rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord! 

Look to the Lord in His strength; seek to serve Him constantly. 

PSALM 105 : 3-4

Father in heaven, You are my Lord and my God. Your judgments prevail over all the earth. Be praised and glorified O Lord for there is no greater joy and fulfillment than to be with You always. 

Forgive me dear Father for I have sinned. In my hour of weakness and temptation, be my strength and shield. May your Spirit in Christ fill me with all I need in order to live a righteous life. Please give me your heart and mind that I may rule over Your possessions in accordance with Your will and purpose. 

Each day, I seek you with joy in my heart as I look upon you for strength. Only you can work for good in me. You have done and continue to do great and wondrous deeds to me. May this glorious day be full of praise and thanksgiving to You whose love never fails. 

With much love, praise, and thanksgiving I humbly pray in Jesus Name. Amen.

GLORY ABOVE THE HEAVENS

High above all nations is the Lord; 

above the heavens is His glory. 

Psalm 113:4

Then the glory of the Lord left the threshold of the temple and rested upon the cherubim. These lifted their wings, and I saw them rise from the earth, the wheels rising along with them. They stood at the entrance of the eastern gate of the Lord’s house, and the glory of the God of Israel was up above them. Then the cherubim lifted their wings, and the wheels went along with them, while up above them was the glory of the God of Israel. - Ezekiel 10:18-19, 22