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Here is the study for 6:30 am, Saturday morning, August 5th, 2006 in the Hearth Room at Epiphany.

The Transfiguration,

Seeing the Glory of the Father’s Beloved Son

Sunday, August 6, 2006
The Transfiguration of the Lord Daniel 7:9-10,13-14
Psalm 97:1-2,5-6,9
2 Peter 1:16-19
Mark 9:2-10

Click here for readings  (For quick review only; bring your Bible)

Sometimes we need something spectacular to free us from weariness or discouragement. Perhaps this was where Peter, James, and John were as this story opens. We can well imagine how upsetting Jesus’ words about his coming death must have been to them (Mark 8:31). Surely they needed a boost!

But then, these disciples saw Jesus transfigured in all of his divine glory. The Greek word Mark used to describe Jesus’ appearance could also be used to describe light flashing off gold or the brilliance of the shining sun. Then two great heroes of the faith, Moses and Elijah, appeared as well. And then a cloud overshadowed the disciples, and they heard God’s majestic voice declaring: “This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!” (Mark 9:7).

How vital this awe-inspiring experience was to these disciples! As the events leading up to the cross unfolded, they would be able to remember God assuring them: “This is my Son.” As the Pharisees and scribes challenged Jesus’ every word and action, they could recall Moses and Elijah giving him their seal of approval.

Similarly, on this special day, God wants to give us a powerful revelation, so that we too can take heart. He wants to assure us of Jesus’ glory so that we will have the courage and desire to follow him, even to Calvary.

Brothers, Jesus is alive! He is with us! Day after day, he wants to unveil a little more of his glory to us, until that final day when we will see Jesus standing with his Father, dazzling like the sun, shining like a million diamonds. So let God reveal Jesus to you today so that you can find strength for the journey that lies before you. Jesus is God’s beloved Son! Our Heavenly Father wants us to know that we too are his beloved sons. May we all listen to him with hearts wide open!

“Jesus, you are the star that lights my path. Open my eyes to your glory. Strengthen my faith in your presence. Keep me close to your side, so that I may be a light of hope and consolation to others.”

1.       In the first reading, the prophet Daniel’s vision of the throne room of God and the “Son of man” is a glimpse into the heavenly realm. In what way does reflecting on your future home in Heaven impact how you live each day? Should it have a greater impact? Why or why not?

2.       The Responsorial Psalm also points to the heavenly throne of God, as well as his rule over all the earth as king. The response is one of rejoicing and gladness. Is this your response, knowing that Jesus is King and Lord over all the earth, and of your life? Why or why not? In what way is Jesus Lord of your life? In what way is he not?

3.       In the Second Reading, Peter recounts his experience of the Transfiguration – an event that obviously had a deep impact on his life. Peter goes on to tell us that we would do well to be attentive to its “prophetic message.” What do you think is the “prophetic message”? How attentive to it are you? What steps can you take to be more attentive?

4.       In the Gospel story of the Transfiguration, we hear the Father speak these words to Jesus, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” How do you make yourself available to listen to Jesus each day? What steps can you take to open yourself more to his “voice” throughout the day?

5.       The meditation ends with these words, “So let God reveal Jesus to you today so that you can find strength for the journey that lies before you. Jesus is God’s beloved Son! Our Heavenly Father wants us to know that we too are his beloved sons. May we all listen to him with hearts wide open!” Take a few moments at the end of your meeting to quietly reflect on these words, and allow God to tell you deep within your inner being that you are a beloved son of your Heavenly Father. Also pray together the prayer at the end of the meditation.

Come Holy Spirit!  ~  Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and en kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your spirit and they are created, and you renew the face of the earth. Let us pray: O God, you taught the hearts of your faithful by sending them the light of your Holy Spirit. In that same spirit give us your right judgment and the joy of your consolation. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen

Prayer to St. Joseph  ~  Glorious St. Joseph, guide and protector of the Holy Family, we ask that you obtain for us from your son, Jesus, the strength and wisdom to lead our families to their Father in heaven. Most Chaste spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may we imitate your obedience to the will of God and be ever mindful of the vocation to which we have been called. Amen