Very human God!
 
Rightly we are in awe of Jesus the Christ. As Peter did, we call him Lord and God but
sometimes we forget his uniqueness as both man and God.
 
Jesus lived on earth as an ordinary man with ordinary feelings. That was the whole point of
his incarnation. How he must have dreaded the torture and crucifixion that was the inevitable
end of his journey! He would have been less than human if he wasn't fearful of the pain and
suffering. It is in knowing that and stepping up for us nonetheless that the fullness of Jesus
love for us is revealed.
 
In the Transfiguration event, Jesus shines with bright rays of light, Old Testament prophets
appear next to him and God the Father speaks. For Jesus the Transfiguration (Mt 17:1-9) is
the Father's affirmation of him in his mission. Peter, James and John must have been already
aware of Jesus’ special nature. These three leaders among the apostles have been especially
chosen to witness this astounding event. Though the experience is overwhelming and
discombobulating at the time, it is a glimpse of Jesus' glory and divine assurance that, though
bad times are coming, they need to stand up and be unafraid. Much more will be revealed to
them along the journey of Jesus’ mission, his death and resurrection, and, remembering this
experience, eventually they will understand the Creator’s unbounded love.
 
Jesus calls us too, to stand tall and be unafraid. The circumstances of our world, our country,
our parish, our families are challenging. Making compassionate, faithful Christian decisions
is difficult and we are tempted to demand that God make it all right - now! Instead though,
we find the strength, through prayer and through His Word and sacraments, to focus on Jesus,
and wait.
 
Deacon Mark Kelly