Solemnity of the Transfiguration of the Lord

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 18th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mk 9:2–10*

*First Reading : Dn 7:9–10, 13–14*

*Second Reading : 2 Pt 1:16–19*

*Solemnity of the Transfiguration of the Lord*

*The Problem of the Sleep and the Transfiguration*

*1) Transfiguration and Sleep*

Today as we celebrate the feast of Transfiguration, let us reflect about the Concept of Transfiguration of Jesus and the Sleep of the Disciples

Jesus went up to Mount Tabor for prayer. 

When we went to the mountain He also took with Him, His beloved disciples, Peter, James and John 

At Mount Tabor Jesus spent time in prayer and as He was praying, Transfiguration of Jesus took place 

*2) Disciples and the Sleep*

The Gospel shows us that the Disciples, as they reached the mountain were tired. 

When Jesus was spending time in prayer, the disciples were at sleep 

They could not remain awake and pray along with Jesus

Since Jesus was praying, the Disciples should have spent time in prayer. But they were busy in sleeping and taking rest

*3) The Glory of Jesus during Transfiguration*

When Jesus was transfigured, *his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white.*

Mosses and Elijah appeared in Glory 

The Atmosphere filled with the presence of God,  and there was heavenly Glory in Mount Tabor

*4) Sleep as an obstacle for the Divine Experience*

Since the Disciples were sleeping they were unaware about the great things which were happening at mount Tabor 

Secondly they Lost that beautiful opportunity, to witness this great event by being attentive during the event 

When they Got up, the heavenly figures Mosses and Elijah were about to depart 

The disciples could not participate in the discussion about the future plan, which was discussed by Mosses, Elijah and Jesus 

So because of Sleep, they lost many spiritual gifts

*5) Sleep a bodily weakness*

The disciples found very difficult to remain awake and pray 

It was a bodily weakness which led them to lose some important spiritual gifts 

At times bodily weaknesses can cause great harm in our Spiritual life. 

*6) Sleep as a weakness and our Life*

As we know that sleep is only a broad term which can be applied to our weaknesses in general 

Sleep, here, not refered only to the physical sleep, but our bodily passions, bad habits, and all our weaknesses. 

So what type of sleep is hindering in my life to experience the Glory of God??

Sleep of arrogance

Sleep of jealousy

Sleep of anger 

Sleep of revenge

Sleep of pride 

Sleep of selfishness

Sleep of division 

Sleep of greed

Sleep of lack of faith

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*