Daily Gospel Reflection for March 1, 2015

Today’s Gospel: Mark 9:2-10

The transfiguration of Christ reminds us that Jesus is not only the son of Mary, but the beloved Son of our Father in heaven. When Jesus had this mystical experience with Elijah and Moses in the presence of Peter, James, and John, he didn’t come down from the mountain with a stone tablet of commandments like Moses. Instead, the heavens opened up, and the Father asked one thing of us: “Listen to Him.”

How many times during our busy days do we really take the time to listen to Jesus? We certainly can find Jesus in the words of sacred scripture, or when we attend Mass or worship, but do we really listen to Jesus when he manifests his presence in the most unexpected places? Do you listen to Jesus when the homeless person asks for a few coins as you pass by? Do you recognize the beloved Son of God in your children, your spouse, and all those that God brings into your life each day? The Feast of the Transfiguration of Jesus challenges us to seek the presence of Christ in our lives, and then to listen with an open heart.

Ponder:

Reflect on a time when you ignored the presence of Christ in someone because you were too busy or you passed judgment on someone in need. How did you feel? Name some ways can you begin to live your life with eyes and heart that are open to recognizing and responding to the presence of Christ.

Pray:

Gracious God,
You invite all of your children
to listen to your beloved son, Jesus.
Remove the scales from my eyes,
and soften my heart that I may
readily serve your divine presence in the poor, the lonely,
and all those in need. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

We thank our friends at The Word Among Us for providing our gospel reflection team with copies of Abide In My Word 2015: Mass Readings at Your Fingertips. To pray the daily gospels with this wonderful resource, visit The Word Among Us.

Copyright 2015 Dr. Mary Amore