The Transfiguration of the Lord reveals to Peter, James, and John the heavenly glory of Christ, eventually inspiring them after Pentecost to proclaim the Good News with conviction and power.
Here are some of the themes that we discover in the Mass readings for the Ascension of the Lord.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 1:1-11
Beginning where the Gospel of Luke ended, Acts describes how Jesus was present to the disciples for forty days after his resurrection.
Promising the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus commands the disciples to be his witnesses to the ends of the earth as he is lifted up into heaven.
Psalm – 47:2-3,6-9
“God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.”
The people rejoice and sing as God rules over all the nations from his throne in heaven.
2nd Reading – Ephesians 1:17-23
We seek the Spirit of wisdom and enlightenment to understand all that God has revealed through Jesus Christ.
From the time of his earthly ministry, through his death, resurrection and ascension, all power has been given to Christ over all of creation.
2nd Reading – Ephesians 4:1-13 (2nd Option)
We are urged to live with humility, gentleness, patience, peace, and love as we strive to unite in one body and one Spirit
There are many different gifts and callings, and all are necessary to work together to build up the body of Christ.
Gospel – Mark 16:15-20
The risen Lord commands his disciples to go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature, and they will be accompanied by many signs of power.
The Lord then ascends into heaven as the disciples go forth and carry out their commission.
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.
Here’s a quick look at the themes for the readings for the 2nd Sunday of Advent.
1st Reading – Baruch 5:1-9
The prophet encourages the people to take off the robe of mourning and misery and put on the splendor of glory from God.
God has commanded; he is leading the people in joy and bringing them back in glory.
Psalm 126:1-6
“The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.”
The people who sow in tears shall reap rejoicing.
2nd Reading – Philippians 1:4-6,8-11
Paul confidently prays with joy for the people that they will continue their good work until the day of Christ Jesus.
This good work includes love, knowledge, discernment, purity and the fruit of righteousness.
Gospel – Luke 3:1-6
Luke sets the context of John the Baptist with the names of history, such as Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate and the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas.
John’s ministry is understood in light of the words of Isaiah…prepare the way of the Lord!
Three Great Things 