Matthew 17:1-9
Chapter 17
The transfiguration of Jesus
Jesus’ appearance changed before them: his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as snow.
Then suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus.
Peter spoke up and said to Jesus:
“Master, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will set up three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
Peter was still speaking when a bright cloud covered them with its shadow, and a voice from the cloud said:
“This is my Son, the Beloved, my Chosen One. Listen to him.”
Hearing the voice, the disciples fell to the ground full of fear.
But Jesus came, touched them, and said:
“Stand up, do not be afraid!”
When they looked up, they saw no one else except Jesus.
And as they came down the mountain, Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man is raised from the dead.
Commentaries
Transfiguration of Jesus.
The disciples feel discouraged after hearing Jesus’ announcement of his passion and understanding the consequences of following him. The transfiguration serves as a message of encouragement because it reveals Jesus’ glory and points to his victory on the cross. In this account, we see a full view of who Jesus is. Through him, God’s glory is shown; he is truly the Messiah Israel has waited for and is also the Son of God. This presentation is meant for the disciples who are with him and, in the evangelist’s view, for everyone reading the Gospel. Its goal is to strengthen the disciples’ faith in Jesus by helping them see his victory over death; thus, they can face all the challenges of being his followers.