Have You Been Transfigured?

In Matthew 17, we hear the story of Jesus’ Transfiguration on Mount Tabor. Three apostles – James, Peter, and John – witness another “threesome,” a brilliantly radiating Christ conversing with Moses (the Law) and Elias (the Prophet). This took place just six days before Jesus conveyed the manner of His death to His apostles.

Reflecting on this gospel, the elements of prayer, community, and service shine through. During prayer before Jesus in the tabernacle, the Daughters of Charity witness Christ’s hidden divinity in the Eucharistic bread. Prayers and mass are offered for those we know, serve, and minister. Gathering together in community, we are strengthened to bring Christ to those who are poor.

Let us reflect on our service of Christ in need. Daughters of Charity have been known as a community that visits the needy in their homes. Sometimes we go with another sister or with a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, going in twos to the “mountain top.” We talk, share, laugh, and cry with the third needy neighbor.

The needs are various: food, rent, bills, transportation, listening ears, stopping eviction, and especially hearts, friendship, mentoring, budgeting, supporting, and praying! Tears stream down faces or a wrinkled brow thinks and prays through a situation. The brightness of the Holy Spirit inspires a sense of solution or support of the family.

Christ is the rule of the Daughters of Charity.

After the visit, we pray, “Lord, it is good to be here. Let us set up a support system so the family can help themselves.” We often visit again for continued friendship and support. Our hearts are different; our prayers are transformed. Service Changes.

Have you been transfigured?

Written by Sister Ann Claire Rhoads, D.C.