Church of the Home for Saturday, August 6

Transfigurate Us, O Lord

Today is the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord. This event is significant in Jesus’ life and ministry because it confirms his divinity and demonstrates how he fulfills the Old Testament scriptures. It also provides the proves Jesus' declaration that his suffering will end in glory.

The Gospel of Luke describes the event:

Jesus took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray.

While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white.

And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem.

Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep, but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.

As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” But he did not know what he was saying.

While he was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud.

Then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my chosen Son; listen to him.”

After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. They fell silent and did not at that time tell anyone what they had seen.

Though the disciples do not understand his meaning, the Transfiguration and Jesus’ charge to the disciples present a promise of what is to come. There is hope because he will soon triumph over sin and death, and be raised in the fullness of glory – the glory of which they have just been given a glimpse.

On the Mount of Tabor, where the Transfiguration occurred, stands a church that was designed to look like three pitched tents, a large one for Jesus and the other two for Moses and Elijah. Outside the church, the ruins of an ancient church remain as a testament to the centuries of pilgrims traveling to this steep mountain to give praise to the Glory of Jesus. On a centuries-old wall, a plaque hangs stating:

"The hour of transfiguration came to Jesus at the moment when He was ready to go out into night of death. As members of His Body, we can only receive the grace of transfiguration, which he has earned for us, by the same way, the way of humiliation and purging. "

Bring the Transfiguration into your Church of the Home by reflection and discussion on these questions:

How are we living transfigured lives in which we turn away from darkness and lean into the light?
Are our Churches of the Home places in which we can experience transfiguring moments?
Are we fully aware and truly experiencing those moments when God displays his glory to us?
Are we hearing God's voice to listen to his beloved son?

But don't stop there! How can your Church of the Home go out and reflect the glory of Jesus in the world today?

Resurrection invites you to share with your parish family how you are trying to live transfigured lives and where you see transfigurations occurring. Who or what has reflected that gloriousness of God in your lives? Share your thoughts by replying to this Church of the Home edition or email resurrectionparish@gbres.org.

Resurrection supports the mission of all! Recently, we were made aware of Samaritan's Heart Mission Church's effort to collect school supplies for local children. However, they are in need of an extra boost of support.

Resurrection is collecting supplies for 450 elementary students attending Tank and Fort Howard schools until tomorrow. These two schools have traditionally been some of the most impoverished in the Green Bay School District.

Donations can be monetary or needed items. Collection boxes are located at all church entrances and at Door #9 (Parish office door.)