Let’s explore some of the themes in the readings for Mass on this 19th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – 1st Kings 19:9a,11-13a
Elijah takes shelter in a cave at Horeb and encounters mighty wind, an earthquake, and fire…but the Lord is not present in these natural forces.
Elijah then hears a tiny whispering sound, and he recognizes the Lord in the whisper.
Psalm – 85:9-14
“Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation.”
We listen to God, and encounter kindness and truth, justice and peace.
2nd Reading – Romans 9:1-5
Paul is in anguish for his own people, the children of Israel, and would wish himself accursed for their sake.
Paul acknowledges that the promises to the Israelites are the glory of the covenants and promises of salvation history, which are fulfilled in Jesus Christ who is over all.
Gospel – Matthew 14:22-33
Jesus dismisses the crowds and goes up the mountain to pray while the disciples are in a boat being tossed about by a storm.
Jesus walks on the water to the disciples, and Peter calls out to him and begins to walk on the water.
When Peter sees the strength of the storm he starts to sink, and Jesus rescues him.
The Transfiguration of the Lord brings both consolation and challenge to our hearts. We are consoled by the glory of God revealed on the mountaintop, yet we are challenged to prepare for the moment when we will stand before the Risen Lord on the day of judgment.
Let’s examine some of the key themes in the Mass readings for the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord.
1st Reading – Daniel 7:9-10,13-14
The Ancient One is seated upon a throne, ablaze in awesome majesty and dazzling glory.
The Son of man approaches the Ancient One and receives dominion, glory, and kingship over all peoples.
Psalm – 97:1-2,5-6,9
“The Lord is king, the most high over all the earth.”
Heaven and all creation acknowledge God’s might and glory.
2nd Reading – 2nd Peter 1:16-19
Jesus Christ has received all honor and glory from God the Father.
Peter and the other disciples witnessed this on the mountain and made it known to others.
Gospel – Matthew 17:1-9
Jesus brings Peter, James, and John up a high mountain, where he is transfigured in glory with Moses and Elijah.
A voice from heaven announces, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”
The disciples fall to the ground afraid until Jesus bids them to rise. They are instructed not to tell anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.
Three Great Things 