TRANSFER YOUR WARMTH TO OTHERS
Jesus truly does
want to dwell within us for all time, wanting us to be open to God's love and
to minister and serve to those most in need.
On
a hot summer day, it doesn't take long to stand in the sun before it warms us.
We can in no time begin to radiate the heat. Walking in a cool room, we can
easily transfer the warmth to someone who has been sitting in the cold by
taking their hand. This is an image of the Power of Jesus' Transfiguration for
us. St. John Chrysostom says that "in the Transfiguration, Jesus revealed
to the disciples that He was God dwelling with them." But the
Transfiguration is not an event locked up in the past, limited to the pages of
Scripture and given exclusively to Peter, James and John.
As
we reflect on the mystery of Jesus in the radiance of bright light and dazzling
white, we begin to pick up some of the Son's warmth. This glory revealed among
us cannot be kept to ourselves. We are called to radiate the warmth of God's
grace to a cold world. We truly can bring light into a dark world each time we
share Christ's light with others. Jesus shows Himself in His glory not to be
put on a high throne or a pedestal. Rather, He truly does want to dwell within
us for all time, wanting us to be open to God's love and to minister and serve
to those most in need.
Jesus
was transfigured in the presence of Peter, James and John while they were
asleep! Upon awakening they discovered Jesus in glory with Moses and Elijah.
How much do we miss of God's glory and action because we are spiritually
asleep? There are many things that can keep our minds asleep to the glory of
God. For example, an unexamined life can keep us from thinking things through
and facing our doubts and questions. Are we able to take on new challenges from
Jesus? Troubles in our lives can be a block until we can see past it to the
glory of God.
Are
we spiritually awake? We, too, as disciples of Jesus, are called to be
witnesses of His glory. We all, with unveiled face, behold the glory of the
Lord and are being changed into His likeness from one degree of glory to
another; for this comes from the Lord Who is the Spirit of Truth. Let us seek
His presence in our hearts each and every day!