Transfiguration moments

According to a text message I received, in this fast-changing world, a new version of the dialogue between the father and the prodigal son could run thus: “Father, I am no longer worthy to be called your son … because I am now your daughter.”

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In today’s Gospel (Mk. 9, 2-10), Jesus was transfigured before the very eyes of Peter, James and John. It was an awesome and unforgettable experience, a turning point, for them to witness the divinity of Jesus. The transfiguration changed them, affected them, and, yes, transfigured them

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A religious experience is God’s gift to us. It is not so much a result of our human efforts as it is a result of God’s grace. We cannot and should not “imprison” God according to our religion, practices, devotions, rituals, or devotions. God is far bigger than all these. While these prepare us to receiving the divine, let us not lose sight of the spontaneity and gratuity of God’s tremendous presence and love in ways only He knows where, how or when.

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The Transfiguration teaches us that at any moment of our lives, God can make Himself known and make Himself present. All we need is the openness to the stirrings and the movements of the divine. May we not belittle moments when God speaks to us in simple, ordinary events, places and people. At any moment, God is speaking. Are we listening?

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It was some sort of “transfiguration moment” for me to have been in Kolkata, India, where Mother Teresa worked and lived. It is amazing what this little, humble woman has done to help alleviate the suffering of the poorest of the poor, and to give hope especially to the abandoned and the dying. My overall realization from this exposure to Mother Teresa’s person and work is that I still have so much to learn about love, sacrifice and self-denial.

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“This is my beloved Son.” I always thought in the past that I could easily identify with this scripture passage, but after experiencing Mother Teresa’s total and concrete commitment to God’s call, I know I need to strive more to become a son pleasing to the Father. Now, more than ever, I could identify myself with the scripture passage that says:  “Have mercy on me, a sinner.”

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Seeing the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, was also some kind of a “transfiguration moment” for me. But far more than the beauty of the structure as one of the seven wonders of the world, it was the story behind it that amazed me. It is a symbol of enduring love, built by the Shah Jehan to house the grave of his beloved wife, Queen Numtaz Mahal, who died following the birth of their 14th child. It is a statement that love can be so devoted and true.

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Jesus discouraged the disciples, particularly Peter, from building tents up there in the transfiguration mountain. That’s because He wants to dwell in our hearts rather than in structures. He wants us to bring Him wherever we go, and in whatever we do. We who experienced transfiguration must in turn become agents of transfiguration.

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Lent reminds us that we carry nothing with us when we leave this world, except the love we carry in our hearts. Let this be a clear reminder for people who are so engrossed in building up their worldly treasures, fame, or influence. Build on love. It is the best investment in this life, and beyond.

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I was in Taft, Eastern Samar, last week for a Mass together with blind girl Fatima Soriano upon the invitation of Batch 1987 of Taft National High School, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. I was happy to meet the batch members’ former teachers who helped in their transformation and transfiguration. We salute all people involved in transforming the lives of other people for the better. It is so inspiring to see how a small town, a small school, can produce outstanding graduates, among them Dr. Vic Dongallo, medical director of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, and Belen Docena-Asuelo of the Bureau of Immigration, to name some.

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There is a Catholic priest by the name of Fr. Bismarque Dias who is running as an independent candidate for the Assembly elections in Goa, India. This jeans-and-T-shirt-clad young priest is transforming politics in that part of the world. Yes, we need to change our corrupt, proud and arrogant leaders! We don’t have to be stuck with them!

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Father Dias starts his campaign with an apology from the elders to the youth. Among the sins of the elders he mentioned is that of abusing Mother Earth, giving children junk food, giving material goods instead of a hug, giving TV and computer games instead of time, etc. Finally he apologizes to the youth that when they looked for a better future, “we took money for votes and gave you corrupt leaders” instead of good leaders. Amen. We say in the Philippines, mea culpa as well.

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A moment with the Lord:

Lord, remind me that every and any moment could be a transfiguration moment. Amen.