Identity

 

The Spiritual Waiting Room

Identity

Beloved   Son

Transfigured   Confirmed   Fulfilled

Then A Cloud Came

Listen

(Photo and poem by Kathy McNamara)

Scripture:   Mark 9:7

Then a cloud came. A shadow was cast over all of them. From the cloud a voice was heard:

"This is my beloved son. Listen to him."

Reflection

Mark relates an amazing experience that Jesus has on the mountain. He is with Peter, James, and John and becomes transfigured before them. His clothes become dazzling white and Moses and Elijah appear with him. 

The three apostles who were with Jesus were stunned. They could not believe what was happening. They had never seen anything like this before.

Jesus was revealing His identity. He was showing them who He really was. It was overwhelming for the three apostles as it would be for any of us.

They knew that Jesus was a special teacher who taught with authority. They saw Him do fantastic miracles and heal many people. 

This was something very different. Jesus was demonstrating His extraordinary power to become totally transformed. He was in this world but not of this world. He showed that as He was conversing with Elijah and Moses.

Then a voice came which fully revealed the identity of Jesus. It was the voice of God which told the three apostles that Jesus was God's Son.

We all wonder about our true identity. The question, "Who am I?", is one we all have to answer. 

Jesus shows us the way to answer this question. We have to listen to God. We have to hear God's voice. Prayer is the key.

As we take some time to commune with God, we can discover our true identity. We also can become transfigured by God's grace and experience how deeply and completely we are loved.

The shadows are lifted. We are beloved! We know who we are and whose we are!

1. How do you answer the question, "Who am I?"

2. How does prayer help you find your identity?

3. Do you see yourself as beloved by God?

4. What do you see as you reflect on Kathy's photo?

(scripture adaptation, reflection, and questions by John J. McNamara)