Transfiguration of the Lord

Readings for Thursday August 6, 2009

Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord

First Reading: Daniel 7:9-10,13-14
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 97
Second Reading: 2 Peter 1:16-19
Gospel: Mark 9:2-10


Jesus took Peter, James, and his brother John, and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no fuller on earth could bleach them. Then Elijah appeared to them along with Moses, and they were conversing with Jesus. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here! Let us make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” He hardly knew what to say, they were so terrified. Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them; from the cloud came a voice, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” Suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone but Jesus alone with them. (Mark 9:2-8)

Peace be with you brothers and sisters as we celebrate this day, the Transfiguration of our Lord Jesus Christ. Today let us reflect on the wonders of God. Let us set our minds on His greatness and glory. Let us recall His wondrous deeds in this world. Let us have a heart that is overflowing with thanksgiving to our Lord for His life, death and resurrection. Let us say thank you for God with us, Jesus humbling himself and taking on human flesh and becoming one of us.

In today's first reading from Daniel, the prophet has a vision which points the way to Jesus. Daniel's vision shows us that all things point to Christ as it did in the bible, but how all things in our life should show us the way and lead us to Christ. In his vision ,Daniel describes what he sees: "The one like a Son of man received dominion, glory, and kingship; all peoples, nations, and languages serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away,
his kingship shall not be destroyed."

Jesus Christ, our Lord, has been given an everlasting dominion, for that we should all be praising the Lord, for one day if we are found worthy, we will be able to be a part of His kingdom for ever and ever.

Father above, we thank you and praise you for this day. Lord, thank you for your abundant love and mercy. Lord grant us the strength and courage to follow you with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength so that one day we can be with you in heaven. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.