Importance of Face : Jesus' face Shone like the Sun

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season : Lenten Season :  Second Week :  Sunday*

*Gospel : Mt 17:1-9* 

*First Reading : Gen 12:1-4*

*Responsorial Psalm : 33:4-22*

*Second Reading 2 Tim 1:8-10*

*Importance of Face : Jesus' face Shone like the Sun*

*1) Why is the face important in the Bible?*

The face in Scripture represents:

*A) Identity* : The face reveals the person. It is where personality, character, and inner life are expressed.

*B) Presence* : To “seek God’s face” (Psalm 27:8) means to seek His presence—not just His blessings.

*C) Relationship* : In Hebrew culture, turning one’s face toward someone meant favor and intimacy. Turning away meant rejection.

The priestly blessing says: “The Lord make His face shine upon you…” (Numbers 6:24–26)

God’s shining face = favor, grace, closeness.

So when Jesus’ face shines, it reveals: His divine identity, His unity with the Father, His glory made visible

*2) Why did Jesus’ face shine like the sun?* 

At the Transfiguration: The veil of His humanity was momentarily lifted. His divine glory, normally hidden, became visible. The disciples saw who He truly is.

This was not borrowed light (like Moses reflected glory). It was intrinsic light — glory from within.

His shining face reveals: He is the Light of the World (John 8:12), He is the radiance of God’s glory (Hebrews 1:3), He is the visible image of the invisible God

The sun symbolizes: Life, Truth, Power, Revelation

So the shining face shows divine life radiating outward.

*3)  Different types of faces in the Bible*

The Bible speaks symbolically about various kinds of “faces”:

*A) Joyful Face* : “A cheerful heart has a continual feast.” (Proverbs 15:15). Joy attracts, unites, invites relationship.

*B) Angry / Hardened Face* : Cain’s face fell (Genesis 4:5). A fallen face reveals inner turmoil and separation.

*C) Covered Face* : Moses covered his face (Exodus 34:33). Symbol of distance between God and people.

*D) Shining Face* : Moses’ face shone after meeting God (Exodus 34:29). Jesus’ face shone from within — greater glory.

*E) The Four Living Creatures’ Faces* : In Ezekiel 1 and Revelation 4, four faces appear: Man (intelligence), Lion (authority), Ox (service), Eagle (vision). These symbolize fullness of divine character.

*4) Joyful face attract, while other faces divide*

The human face communicates before words.

*A joyful face*: Signals safety, Invites relationship, Builds trust, Reflects inner peace

*An angry, proud, or bitter face*: Signals threat, Creates distance, Builds walls, 

Spiritually speaking: Light attracts. Darkness divides.

At the Transfiguration, the disciples were overwhelmed—but they were drawn into worship. Glory does not repel those open to it.

*5) The significance of our face in relation to others*

Our face is the visible expression of our inner state.

Jesus said: “The eye is the lamp of the body.” (Matthew 6:22)

Our face: Reflects what fills our heart., Becomes a witness to others. Either communicates grace or tension.

In 2 Corinthians 3:18: “We… beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed…”

The more we behold Christ, the more His character reflects in us — even in our countenance.

*6) Points to Ponder* 

What shines from my face? Is it anxiety? Anger? Joy? Peace?

What do I behold? We reflect what we constantly look at.

Am I transmitting light or shadow?

Our face can: Heal, Encourage, Invite, Or divide

The Transfiguration is a promise The shining face is not only revelation — it is destiny.

Revelation 22:4 says: “They will see His face…” To see His face fully is the ultimate communion.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*