Beloved by God – Matthew 17:1-9 Reflection
The Transfiguration is one of those scenes in which we all seem to have a similar visualization. Was this mystical experience a one-time event arranged just for Peter, James, and John? When you place yourself with them, doesn’t the Word come alive; don’t you see Jesus in the dazzling light and hear the Father speaking? Do not fear these thoughts and grounded consolation experiences because you are beloved by God. The only ones you have to test the spirit are those that could not ordinarily happen. Our Father is “well pleased” to give you the grace to appreciate and understand the enormity of Jesus coming into the world. You will know when to praise and when to give what you have received.
The Transfiguration by James Tissot.
The full-resolution painting and more details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 17:1-9 – Scripture*
Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. 2 And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. 3 Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. 4 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” 8 And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.
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.”
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 17:1-9 Reflection – Beloved by God.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer 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 3 passage.
The Immersive Prayer website follows the guidelines for image web use at the Brooklyn Museum and the Jewish Museum websites.
Facebook discussion group on St. John of the Cross.
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Extended Ordinary Time Lectio Divina Scripture Reflections
Matthew 17:1-9 Reflection – Beloved by God is a Lection Divina Reflection in the season of Ordinary Time and it also used in the Lenten Season