August 6 2023 The Transfiguration of the Lord
As I watched in the night visions,
I saw one like a human being
coming with the clouds of heaven.
And he came to the Ancient One
and was presented before him.
To him was given dominion
and glory and kingship,
that all peoples, nations, and languages
should serve him.
From Daniel 7:9-10,13-14, NRSV
Today’s First Reading in the Catholic lectionary is chosen to complement the gospel account of the Transfiguration. In this moment, Jesus was revealed to his closest disciples and friends as something more than an ordinary human being – as God’s “Beloved”. There is a clear connection between the experience of the disciples on the mountain and the event described here by Daniel. Perhaps (after Jesus’ resurrection) as his disciples read this prophecy from Daniel about the one to whom dominion over the whole world was entrusted, they remembered that time on the mountain when they were given a glimpse of the glory and divine authority that was in Jesus.
- Why do you think the disciples were given this glimpse of Jesus’ glory ?
- Have you heard of people experiencing visions – what does this make you think ?
The full reading from which the extract above is taken is filled with wonderful description and symbolism – you may like to read and reflect on the full reading.
Image – The Transfiguration of Jesus – Pietro Perugino
