When we have experienced the Mercy of God in our lives, we understand that it has lifted us out of whatever struggle we have had with the “darkness” of doubt or sin. We know that mercy, both received and given, enables us to live in the “light of hope” for both today and for all of our tomorrows.
But isn't it true that sometimes when we face trials and struggles in our lives it’s difficult “to see the light at the end of the tunnel?” We may at times be overwhelmed and feel uncertain about how to deal with the responsibilities given to us as members of our families, of our communities, and of our professional associations, such as those we have at our jobs or in our schools. We may be burdened with illnesses, financial troubles, broken relationships, incomplete projects and/or unfinished business (just to name a few). We might even have come to the conclusion that we are separated from God’s love because of our weaknesses and our sins. The reality is that while we journey through this life there are times when each one of us may face such moments of doubt and even despair. In those moments, “in the tunnel,” it may seem to us that there is no “mercy” and that only the darkness of uncertainty and loss of hope will prevail.
I believe the account of the Transfiguration of Jesus, related to us in the Gospel today, provides us with a Christian perspective on how to face such trials and struggles; it counsels us about how to resist temptations to wallow in doubt and despair, and it literally promises us a view into “the light” of future peace, consolation and happiness (see Luke 9:28b-36). I believe such a future can only be understood from the perspective of a knowledge of the great mercy and love of God.
The Gospel tells us that “Jesus took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray.” While there, the Apostles witnessed a miraculous vision of a transfigured Jesus. According to the account, the Lord’s face changed in appearance, and his clothing became dazzling white, and he was seen conversing with the great Old Testament figures of Moses, “the lawgiver” and Elijah “the great prophet.” The Gospel tells us that these other two men also “appeared in glory.” The Apostles heard them speak of things to come, about the trials and struggles Jesus would have to endure when he would enter Jerusalem. Although the Gospel does not specifically disclose the words they spoke, we believe they revealed to the Apostles how Jesus would have to suffer and die in order complete his mission as the Savior of all people. And the Apostles were both amazed and filled with fear as they beheld the sight and listened to the words that were spoken. Then a cloud enveloped them and a voice from heaven was heard to say “this is my chosen Son; listen to him.”
We understand this event gave the Apostles a foreshadowing of the difficulties that would come, but also a great promise of God's great mercy and love, and a future glory to be enjoyed by those who would endure until the end. This was what their call to discipleship was all about. God the Father himself promised them that if they would maintain their faith and “listen to him” that they too would someday enjoy the reward of “heavenly glory.” And so too can we!
I believe today’s Gospel clearly counsels us that when faced with trials, struggles, doubts and despairs, we must have confidence that as people of faith we will have a way to see clearly “the light at the end of the tunnel.” This is possible for us because of the great mercy and love offered to us by the Father. And so as we continue this Lenten journey, a time in which we reflect on our call to “turn away from sin and believe in the Gospel” let us encourage each other to succeed in all of our earthly responsibilities – and as well to those that are part of our common call to Christian discipleship!
My friends, may we also be sure and certain about the promise of God's mercy and love, and of future peace, consolation and happiness given to us through Resurrection and eternal life with Jesus forever.
Praise God! Friar Timothy
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