The Transfiguration: A Call to Listen to Christ
In a powerful homily, Fr. Deogratius reflected on the significance of the Transfiguration of the Lord, as recounted in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 9:28-36). He spoke passionately about how this moment reveals Christ’s divine glory, affirming His identity as the Son of God and strengthening the faith of His disciples as they journeyed toward the mystery of His Passion and Resurrection.
Fr. Deogratius described how Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain, where He was transfigured before them—His face shining like the sun and His garments becoming dazzling white. Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared, speaking with Him. Then, a voice from the cloud declared, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; listen to Him!”
He emphasized that Luke’s account highlights the role of prayer in this divine event. Jesus was transfigured while in prayer, demonstrating its transformative power. Fr. Deogratius encouraged the people of Mpigi to embrace prayer in their daily lives, whether in farming, business, education, or family matters. He reminded them that, just as Jesus encountered God’s glory through prayer, they too could experience divine strength and guidance by committing themselves to a life of faith and prayer.
The priest explained that the Transfiguration holds profound significance for believers. First, it reaffirms that Jesus is truly God, giving His followers a glimpse of His heavenly glory. Second, the presence of Moses and Elijah signifies the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets in Christ, showing that He is the ultimate revelation of God’s love and salvation. Third, the voice of the Father commands, “Listen to Him,” urging all believers—then and now—to follow Christ’s teachings and example.
Fr. Deogratius likened the disciples’ experience to the lives of modern-day Christians, saying that just as Peter, James, and John had moments of encountering God’s glory, so too do people today. However, just like the disciples had to come down from the mountain and return to the world’s challenges, believers must take their faith into their everyday lives. The Transfiguration, he noted, strengthens Christians to endure hardships, reminding them that suffering is not the end but a path to glory. Jesus Himself faced His Passion, yet He entered into His Resurrection. In the same way, His followers are called to carry their crosses with the hope of sharing in His victory.
Speaking directly about the challenges faced by the people of Mpigi, Fr. Deogratius acknowledged the economic hardships, struggles in education, and the need for unity and peace. However, he reminded the congregation that just as Jesus’ Transfiguration gave His disciples hope, so too does it remind them that God’s light shines even in their darkest moments. He assured them that if they remain faithful and listen to Christ, transformation is possible in their personal lives, families, and entire community.
As he concluded his homily, Fr. Deogratius invited everyone to reflect: Are they truly listening to Jesus in their daily lives? Are they seeking His presence in prayer and the Eucharist? Are they allowing His light to transform them so they may reflect His love in the world? He encouraged the faithful to remember that they are destined for glory and should always walk in the light of Christ, who is their Savior and their God.
With these words, he left the congregation with a message of faith, hope, and renewal, urging them to take the light of Christ into their daily lives and communities. The Transfiguration, he reminded them, is not just a historical event but a call to transformation for all who believe.
Amen.
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