A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew

While [Peter] 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.” When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” And when the disciples raised their eyes, 

Matthew describes the Transfiguration of Jesus and its overwhelming effect on its witnesses Peter, James, and John. It is as if the appearance of Moses and Elijah is just enough for them. Seeing Jesus’ face shine like the sun as he converses with the two prophets, Peter suggests that they build three tents, one for each of them. And then, even as he is still speaking, Peter and the others hear the voice of God speaking to them from a bright cloud that overshadowed them. The disciples fall prostrate in fear, and it is Jesus’ touch and gentle command “Rise, and do not be afraid” that allow them to raise their eyes.

God, help me take in today’s reading. I can’t know what it means to experience the Transfiguration as the disciples experienced it. Fear and awe follow it as the disciples hear your voice on the mountain. Seeing their fear, Jesus touches them and commands them to rise and be unafraid. Yet, what I have access to, the disciples did not have: your presence in the Eucharist and in the sacraments. Is there any less awe and fear in knowing that you are present in that form, no less real than you were present to the disciples? Lord, let me hear and know your voice today with the reverence it deserves, and let me rise unafraid to do your will.

From the prayer of Saint Padre Pio after Holy Communion: “Stay with me, Lord, for it is necessary to have You present so that I do not forget You. You know how easily I abandon You. Stay with me, Lord, because I am weak and I need Your strength, that I may not fall so often.”

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Readings

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Transfiguration of Jesus Christ - Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0b/Transfiguration_of_Jesus_Christ_-_Museu_Nacional_de_Arte_Antiga.jpg

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