The Transfiguration of Jesus stands as a beacon of God’s glory and a testament to Jesus’ divine identity and mission. It invites believers to reflect on the mystery of the Incarnation, the fulfillment of the scriptures, and the promise of eternal life. Offering a glimpse into the divine identity of Jesus Christ and foreshadowing the glory of his Resurrection, the Transfiguration of Jesus is one of the most profound and mystical events recounted in the New Testament. This pivotal moment not only reveals something of Jesus’ nature, it also imparts significant lessons about faith, revelation, and the kingdom of God.
The Transfiguration of Jesus
The story of the Transfiguration is told in Matthew 17:1-8, Mark 9:2-8, and Luke 9:28-36. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain, traditionally believed to be Mount Tabor, where He is transfigured before them. His face shines like the sun, and His clothes become dazzling white. Moses and Elijah appear, conversing with Jesus. A cloud envelops them, and a voice from the cloud proclaims, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”
The Meaning of the Transfiguration
The Transfiguration of Jesus serves multiple profound purposes in the Christian faith:
- Revelation of Divine Glory: The event reveals Jesus’ divine nature and glory, affirming His identity as the Son of God. It serves as a foretaste of the Resurrection, showcasing the divine glory that Jesus would fully manifest through His victory over death.
- Connection to Old Testament: The presence of Moses and Elijah symbolizes the Law and the Prophets, respectively, indicating that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies and the embodiment of God’s covenant.
- Affirmation of Jesus’ Mission: The voice from the cloud reaffirms Jesus’ divine sonship and mission, echoing His baptism and strengthening the disciples’ faith as they approach the challenges of His Passion and crucifixion.
