Matthew 17:9a, 10-13 Reflection ~
I know people that with a simple look can recognize someone from their distant past. I cannot, but from personal and witnessed experiences, I know God often elevates other attributes. For example, I can sometimes sense inner turmoil without even knowing someone. The gift was not mystical but a heightened awareness of “being present.” The idea that God could change me in different ways was a reason why I discerned the need to pursue pastoral education. We are each Elijah and John the Baptist. God wants us to recognize your gifts and work with Jesus inside to help restore all things.
The Transfiguration by James Tissot (full-resolution painting) and more detail at the Brooklyn Museum website.
Matthew 17:9a,10-13 – Scripture*
9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” 10 And the disciples asked him, “Why, then, do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” 11 He replied, “Elijah is indeed coming and will restore all things; 12 but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but they did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of Man is about to suffer at their hands.” 13 Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them about John the Baptist.
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 17:9a, 10-13 – Recognize your Gifts.
Additional Thoughts
This site has written permission from New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) to use the Matthew 17 Bible passage.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative payer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 17 passage.
The Immersive Prayer website follows the guidelines for image web use at the Brooklyn Museum and the Jewish Museum websites.