The Feast of Transfiguration
August 17, 2023
Our Holy Orthodox Church celebrates the commemoration of the transfiguration of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Mount Tabor on Nehassie 13. The disciples, Saint Peter, Saint James and Saint John, were with Him, and about whom the Lord said, “ …. there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom.” (Matthew 16:28) He fulfilled His promise, for six days later, He took His three disciples, up on a high mountain, where He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them talking to the Lord.
The Lord wants to teach us that He is the Lord of Moses whom He can raise from the dead, and that He is the God of Elijah whom He can bring back from heaven. St. Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here, if you wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” This indicated the weakness of Peter for he thought that the Lord needed something to cover Him from the sun. It also indicated his good character, for he did not think of himself or the other disciples. We should not marvel at the lack of knowledge of the disciples, for they were not yet perfected.
While Peter was still speaking, behold a bright cloud overshadowed them, so that Peter would know that Jesus was not in need of tabernacles made by hands. Suddenly a voice came out of the cloud saying, “This is My Beloved Son, with Whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.” (Matthew 17:1-8)
When the disciples heard the voice, they fell on their faces and were exceedingly afraid. Jesus came and touched them with His blessed hand, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but the Lord Jesus alone.
To God is the Glory forever, Amen!
Source: Coptic Synaxarium