In this Gospel, we are invited to witness and share in the transfiguration of Jesus. On the mountain, the disciples caught a glimpse of His true nature—the glory of the Son of God. In that moment, they saw the light that dispels all darkness.
As the Church, as followers of Christ, we are called not only to witness this light but to reflect it in the world. Our mission is to reveal the true nature of Jesus—His love, His hope, His light—to those around us. And “those around us” are not some anonymous crowd. They are our husbands, wives, children, neighbours, coworkers—the very people we encounter every day. This is the mission of the Church: to be Lumen Gentium, the light of the nations.
We live this out not necessarily in grand gestures, but in the ordinary moments of our lives. Think of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. She believed that doing even the smallest act with great love was a way of fulfilling God’s will. This became known as her “Little Way”—a path of holiness rooted in simplicity and love. Though she lived a hidden life as a cloistered nun, she is the patron saint of missionaries and was later declared a Doctor of the Church on the 19th of October 1997. Her example reminds us that holiness is possible in the everyday.
Yet, we may still struggle with doubt: How can I be a light to others, when I so often fall short? This is where the Church becomes essential. We are not the light—Jesus is. But He desires to shine through us, even in our weakness. It is not about our perfection, but His presence.
Consider the story of the Derrynaflan Chalice. Discovered in Tipperary in 1980, it was buried, misshapen, and covered in dirt. At first glance, no one recognized its beauty or significance. But after careful restoration, it revealed exquisite craftsmanship far ahead of its time. Today, it’s proudly displayed in the National Museum of Ireland and has even featured in an exhibit called “The Work of Angels.”
Like that chalice, our true worth can be hidden under the messiness of life—failings, wounds, and self-doubt. But God sees our beauty even when we can’t. He knows us better than we know ourselves. And through His Son, He came to restore us. Through the sacraments and the life of the Church, we are cleansed and renewed so we can reflect His glory.
For this transformation to take place, we too must climb the mountain. That mountain might be the daily challenges we face—the small, mundane, or even frustrating parts of life. But when we enter them with love and openness to Christ, we can experience transfiguration.
Let us pray for the grace to respond to this invitation with generosity. May we allow His light to shine through us and bring hope to a world in need.
Deacon Gerry
