"This is my Son, my beloved, with whom I am well pleased." We ourselves heard this voice come from heaven while we were with him on the holy mountain. Moreover, we possess the prophetic message that is altogether reliable. You will do well to be attentive to it, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts."
2 Pt 1:16-19
Today is the feast of the Transfiguration, an important opportunity for all believers to look up to Christ as "the light of the world," and to experience conversion that brings us from darkness to light.
Darkness scared me. During a trip with CRS to Lesotho, in the south of Africa, I faced this fear. Transformation at the top of a mountain! We were staying in individual huts. When I arrived, I was happy to see a simple bathroom set up in mine and a short candle with a box of matches by the humble bed. I thought, "wonderful! I can pray by candlelight!", after dinner that night, I heard a faint announcement over the loud conversations. "Please remember that all lights will be out soon." I thought, great! Time to rest! Noooo!
The property was solar-powered. Lights out meant no electricity! Only necessary things were powered. I was terrified as I stepped outside, just the bright stars in the sky were visible. A priest realizing that I was paralyzed, offered his arm, and walked me to my hut. As he was living me, he said, "I am next door, and remember Christ is shining in you!" I was not able to sleep and tried to save as much phone charge as possible. I watched the candle burn, but surprisingly fear disappeared. My eyes got used to the darkness, and soon light from the stars and moon became very bright! I was not longer scared; I allowed my eyes to see! I prayed much for those in need, and in thanksgiving to the Lord for showing me his compassion that night. I was transformed and became courageous in His name!
Are you in the darkness forgetting that Jesus' light is in you!? Be transformed and help others see!
Lord, transform the world and make us courageous lanterns that share brightly the light of your son, Jesus! Amen!
Today's Reflection is from:
Vivi Iglesias
Did you know...
Vivi Iglesias is a Community Engagement Manager with the Southeast Regional Office for Catholic Relief Services, working with the nine dioceses of the States of Florida and Georgia. Vivi serves as Region XIV Chair for the V Encuentro Process of Hispanic Ministry and is a lay member of the Bishop's Board of Directors of the US Catholic Bishops Southeast Regional Office for Hispanic Ministry. A native of Argentina, she is a wife, mother, and proud grandmother. Her experience includes almost 19 years of work with the Diocese of St. Petersburg, first in the Diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, later as Executive Secretary to the Bishop for almost eleven years, and finally as Associate Director of Hispanic Ministry.
