Reflection by Rev. Leonard N. Peterson
One of the most widely read and highly acclaimed religious books for over twenty years, God of Surprises, takes readers on a spiritual journey of discovery and change. Jesuit Gerard Hughes encourages you and me to realize the truth of Jesus’ words–”The Kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field “–and suggests ways to find that treasure within ourselves.
We cannot know their inner lives, but we can know for sure that three holy leaders of the early Church, namely the apostles Peter, James and John got a personal invitation from their Master to know Him as “the God of surprises.” As Matthew calmly declares, in a matter-of-fact tone: “He was transfigured before them.” Forced to awning their eyes, the three men were shocked and in awe. They saw, for a brief time, what we all desire to see for eternity: the Divine Face of Christ.
It is a good thing for us to know, this showing of Christ’s divinity. That is so because in this life we are marked men and women, marked, that is, with Christ’s favor, that often looks like disfavor when it comes into our lives disguised as pain.
Let us face facts. Our God is a demanding Person. Never asking us to endure hurt and pain that is beyond our strength to do so but suffering any way you care to define it. He has that right. He has made wonderful promises to us if we obey and accept the troubles that are sent our way to test us. He wants us to succeed. And we will. If we remember the transfiguration.
The man Abraham, featured in our First Reading today, certainly learned that God is a God of Surprises. Here he was, at age 75, long past the time to put his feet up and enjoy his grandchildren, when God asks him to pull up stakes, march to a new and strange land, and only set up his tent when he reaches the new landscape.
Abraham, Peter, James, and John all belong to a long line of persons lovingly created to give God glory that includes you and me, are asked to love deeply and “walk humbly with our God.” When it is time for us also to see Him “as He is” He has promised is we will be happily surprised.
Rev. Peterson’s Reading & Gospel Summary
Reading I: Genesis 12: 1-4a
The great grandfather of Israel is Abraham. This holy man, “our father in faith” as the First Eucharistic prayer calls him, showed heroic trust in God. He is also the divinely chosen mediator of worldwide blessings.
Reading II: 2 Timothy 1:8b-10
Paul is alone and chained like a criminal as part of his holy calling. He tells his readers that the grace we receive from God is free and unmerited. Only if we cooperate with it can we hope to reach our life’s goal.
The Gospel: Matthew 17: 1-9
Jesus’ transfiguration confirms His divine Sonship. It also strengthened the faith of three early Church leaders, just after Jesus had made His first Passion prediction.