The Fourth Luminous Mystery of the Rosary, entitled "The Transfiguration of Jesus", is a central event in the life of Jesus who reveals his divine glory to his disciples. This episode is recounted in the Gospels according to Matthew (17:1-9), Mark (9:2-10) and Luke (9:28-36), and offers us a profound vision of Jesus' divine nature as well as his redemptive mission.
The Transfiguration Event
The Transfiguration takes place on a high mountain, traditionally identified as Mount Tabor. Jesus takes with him three of his closest disciples, Peter, James and John. While they are alone on the mountain, Jesus is transfigured in front of them: his face becomes radiant like the sun, and his clothes become dazzling white. This spectacular transformation is a visible manifestation of Jesus' divine glory.
The Appearance of Moses and Elijah
Two central Old Testament figures, Moses and Elijah, appear alongside Jesus. Moses represents the Law, while Elijah represents the Prophets. Their presence with Jesus indicates that all the Law and the Prophets find their fulfilment in him. They speak with Jesus about his "departure" (or exodus) that he will accomplish in Jerusalem, referring to his passion, death and resurrection.
The Disciples' Reaction
The disciples are amazed and frightened by this vision. Peter, not really knowing what he is saying, suggests building three tents for Jesus, Moses and Elijah, wishing to prolong this extraordinary moment. However, a luminous cloud envelops them, and a voice is heard: "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased: listen to him!"
The Significance of the Transfiguration
The Transfiguration is rich in theological and spiritual significance. It reveals the divinity of Jesus and confirms that he is the beloved Son of the Father, the awaited Messiah. The Father's voice reiterates the importance of listening to Jesus, underlining his divine authority and the importance of his teachings.
This event also prepares the disciples for Jesus' passion. By showing them a glimpse of his divine glory, Jesus gives them strength and hope to face the trials to come. The Transfiguration is a foretaste of the resurrection and heavenly glory, affirming that Jesus' suffering and death are not the end, but lead to victory and glory.
Spiritual Lessons: n meditating on the mystery of the Transfiguration, we are invited to contemplate the glory of Jesus and to renew our faith in his divinity. This event calls us to listen to and follow Jesus with renewed confidence, recognising his authority and his central role in our salvation.
The Transfiguration also reminds us that suffering and glory are linked in the Christian life. Just as Jesus had to pass through the cross to enter glory, we too are called to carry our cross with faith and hope, knowing that the glory of the resurrection awaits us.
The relevance of the Transfiguration: this luminous mystery remains relevant for believers today. It encourages us to seek out moments of prayer and contemplation, spiritual "high mountains" where we can encounter God's presence and be transformed by his grace. It also calls us to bear witness to the glory of Jesus in our daily lives, living according to his teachings and manifesting his love and light to the world.
As we contemplate this mystery, let us ask God to grant us the grace to see the glory of Jesus in our lives and to transform us into his image, so that we can be faithful witnesses to his love and truth in the world.
