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The Readings for August 6, 2025 (Year C, Feast of the Transfiguration)
The readings for the Transfiguration in Year C are:
- First Reading: Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14
- Psalm: Psalm 97
- Second Reading: 2 Peter 1:16-19
- Gospel: Luke 9:28-36
Reflection on the Readings
First Reading: Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14
In this passage, Daniel’s vision depicts the "Ancient of Days" seated on a throne, surrounded by fire and countless attendants, followed by the presentation of "one like a Son of Man" who receives everlasting dominion. This apocalyptic imagery foreshadows the glory of Christ revealed in the Transfiguration. The "Son of Man" points to Jesus’ divine authority and eternal kingship, affirmed in the Gospel account where his divine nature shines forth. Reflecting on this, we are reminded that the Transfiguration is not just a moment of revelation but a confirmation of Christ’s sovereignty over all creation. It challenges us to trust in his eternal reign, even amidst the uncertainties of our world.
Psalm: Psalm 97
The psalm proclaims, “The Lord is king! Let the earth rejoice!” It describes God’s majesty, surrounded by clouds and fire, with righteousness and justice as the foundation of his throne. This imagery resonates with the Transfiguration, where Jesus is enveloped in a cloud and radiant light, revealing his divine kingship. The psalm invites us to respond with awe and worship, recognizing God’s power and justice. It prompts reflection on how we live in light of God’s reign—do we rejoice in his sovereignty and align our lives with his righteousness?
Second Reading: 2 Peter 1:16-19
Peter, an eyewitness to the Transfiguration, affirms its reality, countering any notion that it was a “cleverly devised myth.” He describes the majesty of Christ, the voice from heaven, and the prophetic word confirmed. Peter urges believers to “pay attention” to this word as to a “lamp shining in a dark place.” This reading grounds the Transfiguration in historical testimony and emphasizes its enduring significance. It calls us to trust the apostolic witness and let the light of Christ guide us through the darkness of doubt or despair. Reflecting on this, we might ask: How does the Transfiguration strengthen our faith in moments of uncertainty?
Gospel: Luke 9:28-36
The Gospel account of the Transfiguration in Luke presents Jesus praying on a mountain with Peter, John, and James. His face changes, his clothes become dazzling white, and Moses and Elijah appear, speaking of his “departure” (exodus) in Jerusalem. A cloud overshadows them, and a voice declares, “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!” This moment reveals Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law (Moses) and the Prophets (Elijah), bridging the Old and New Covenants. The divine command to “listen to him” is a call to obedience and discipleship.
The Transfiguration is a pivotal moment in Luke’s Gospel, occurring between Jesus’ prediction of his passion and his journey toward Jerusalem. It offers the disciples—and us—a glimpse of the resurrection glory to sustain them through the cross. Yet, Peter’s desire to build tents suggests a temptation to cling to the mountaintop experience rather than embrace the costly path of discipleship. The cloud and the voice reorient the disciples to focus on Jesus alone, a reminder for us to center our lives on his word and mission.
Personal and Communal Reflection
The Transfiguration invites us to contemplate several key themes:
1. Divine Revelation: The Transfiguration reveals Jesus’ divine identity, affirming his unity with the Father. In our lives, where do we encounter glimpses of God’s glory? It might be in prayer, worship, creation, or acts of love. These moments strengthen us to follow Christ faithfully.
2. Transformation: Jesus’ transfiguration points to our own potential for transformation. As we listen to him, we are called to be conformed to his image (Romans 8:29). How are we allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts, attitudes, and actions?
3. Listening to Christ: The Father’s command to “listen to him” challenges us to prioritize Jesus’ teachings. In a world filled with competing voices, how do we create space to hear and obey Christ? This might involve deeper engagement with Scripture, prayer, or silence.
4. The Journey of Faith: The Transfiguration prepares the disciples for the cross, reminding us that glory and suffering are intertwined in the Christian life. How do we carry the hope of resurrection in the midst of personal or communal struggles?
Application for August 6, 2025
As we celebrate the Transfiguration in 2025, the world continues to grapple with challenges—social, political, and environmental. The readings call us to anchor our hope in Christ’s eternal kingship (Daniel), rejoice in his righteous reign (Psalm 97), trust the apostolic witness (2 Peter), and listen obediently to Jesus (Luke). This feast invites us to climb the mountain of prayer, encounter God’s glory, and descend with renewed courage to live as disciples in the world.
In a practical sense, we might reflect on how we can embody the light of Christ in our communities. This could mean acts of justice, compassion, or reconciliation, reflecting the righteousness of God’s kingdom. As we commemorate the Transfiguration, let us seek moments of divine encounter that empower us to follow Jesus faithfully, even when the path leads through the valley of the cross.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, you revealed your glory on the mountain, showing us the radiance of your divine nature. Help us to listen to your voice, trust in your eternal reign, and be transformed by your Spirit. Strengthen us to carry your light into the world, even through trials, until we see you face to face in glory. Amen.
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