Sacrifice

 

The Spiritual Waiting Room

Sacrifice

Self-Offering

Foreshadow    Suffering   Resurrection

Listen to the Beloved

Transfiguration

(Photo and poem by Kathy McNamara)

Scripture:   Mark 9:7

Jesus was transfigured before Peter, James, and John. He appeared along with Moses and Elijah. Peter wanted to make three tents for them.

From a cloud came a voice that said:

"This is My beloved Son. Listen to Him."

Reflection

When we hear the word sacrifice, we think of the times when we have had to work hard to achieve a special goal. It usually involves extra work on our part and devoting more time to a challenging task. 

We often grumble and complain at the additional time and effort involved. Yet when the goal has been reached, we feel a great sense of accomplishment and increased self confidence in our talents and abilities.

Jesus shows us today in our reading from Mark what our sacrifices can lead to. He has been faithful in following God's direction and has been transformed by His self-offering. His total giving to His mission leads to His transfiguration.

He is accompanied by Elijah and Moses. His transfiguration foreshadows the ultimate glory He will be dwelling in forever. He has sacrificed so much, and His sacrifice involved much suffering. He knew that the path to glory can involve many challenges and obstacles. 

Through His sacrifices Jesus did not hesitate in faithfulness to His mission. He came to show us the meaning of Love. We all know the sacrifices that are involved when we pledge our love to another person. It is no longer about us and our needs. We put the one we love first.

Jesus totally put us first. Although completely innocent, He was put to death because He was thought to be a threat to some in power. 

His sacrifice overcame and conquered death. Through His resurrection Jesus showed us that there was a path to a new life---a life that Jesus demonstrated through His transfiguration. Elijah and Moses are participating in that new life also as Jesus shows us the continuity between the Hebrew and Christian scriptures. 

The key for Jesus is always His relationship with the Father. Jesus is strengthened in His mission by the constant encouragement He receives from the Father. At the time of the transfiguration, the Father gives us great advice concerning His beloved Son:

Listen to Him!!!

1. How important is the idea of sacrifice in your own life?

2. Have there been sacrifices that you have made that have helped you achieve your goals?

3. What is the importance of the transfiguration in your spiritual life?

4. Are there sacrifices you are willing to make or have made for those whom you love?

5. What do you feel as you ponder Kathy's photo?

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