August 6 A Heavenly Revelation Rooted in History and Grace
The Church across the world solemnly observes August 6 as the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord a radiant celebration of Christ’s divine glory made manifest to his disciples, a moment that foreshadows both the resurrection and the eternal promise of heaven.
Though the origins of this feast lie deep in the spiritual traditions of the Eastern Churches notably the Syrian, Byzantine, and Coptic liturgies it only gained prominence in the West in the 11th century, and was formally added to the Roman calendar in 1457. This inclusion was deeply symbolic: it commemorated the Christian victory over Islamic forces at Belgrade, a moment seen not just as a military triumph, but a divine affirmation of faith amidst battle.
The Gospel recounts a mysterious and awe-inspiring event: Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain traditionally identified as Mount Tabor, a lush, green summit that rises gracefully from the Galilean plain. Here, as night envelops the world below, the veil between the earthly and divine is lifted.
As Jesus prays, a dazzling transformation unfolds. His face begins to shine like the sun, and his garments become radiant white. This moment is not merely symbolic; it is a true unveiling of Christ’s divine nature, a preview of his post-resurrection glory.
Beside him appear Moses and Elijah representing the Law and the Prophets. Their presence signifies continuity with the Old Covenant, while their conversation with Jesus about his impending suffering in Jerusalem marks a turning point in salvation history. The disciples, overwhelmed by the majesty, are momentarily swept up in divine ecstasy.
"This is My Beloved Son..."
Amid Peter’s eagerness to preserve the moment by building tents, a luminous cloud descends. A heavenly voice echoes through the silence:
“This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”
This is the second divine affirmation of Jesus as Son the first being at his baptism. The disciples, terrified, fall prostrate. But Jesus gently touches them, restoring their peace and normalcy. As they descend from the mountain at dawn, he instructs them to keep the vision secret until after his resurrection a moment when its meaning would become fully clear.
The Transfiguration is not just a miracle it is a theological revelation. It affirms that Christ's mission is twofold: the cross and the crown, suffering and splendor. As his Passion approaches, this glimpse of glory serves as spiritual encouragement for his followers, who would soon witness his arrest, crucifixion, and death.
It is also a powerful symbol for every believer: the path to eternal glory leads through sacrifice and fidelity. To be transfigured with Christ is to endure with him. His divine light is not just to be admired from afar, but to be sought after through prayer, love, and the embrace of our own crosses.
In today’s secular world, the Feast of the Transfiguration invites us to look beyond appearances and recognize the divine light that pierces through human suffering. It reminds us that heaven is not a distant dream, but a real destiny one already glimpsed by Peter, James, and John.
It is a feast of hope, of God’s indescribable mercy, and the promise that we too are called to shine, transformed by his grace. As the Church proclaims today, “He who revealed his glory on Tabor will reveal his glory in us.”