“But I tell you that Elijah has already come,
and they did not recognize him but did to him whatever they pleased.
So also will the Son of Man suffer at their hands.”

matthew 17:12

Matthew 17:9a, 10-13

Reflection

Jesus tells his disciples to not tell anyone about his transfiguration until he has been raised from the dead. They then ask Jesus why Elijah is supposed to come before the Son of Man, but Jesus says this has already happened (John the Baptist). He indicates that the Son of Man will suffer a similar fate.

There is a lot of death that occurs during and after Jesus’ time on earth, and although we know he conquers death, it can seem like all the good people die, and the world is left with evil. Yet we know that evil cannot win, because Jesus is already the victor. While Satan is the prince of the world, we know the ultimate victory is Christ’s.

When we get down about the evil happenings around the world, remember to rely on your faith and trust in the Lord. To the world, he appears weak and defeated, but to those who focus on eternal life, Christ is the beacon, light of hope, and victor.

During Advent, reflect on Jesus’ coming into the world to save us. He never abandons those who believe and trust in him, even when they’re surrounded by darkness.

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Saint of the Day

St. John of the Cross: 1542 – 1591

“Strive to preserve your heart in peace; let no event of this world disturb it.” St. John of the Cross