Longer, Lighter Days

PRAYER FOR THE WEEK

Jesus, help me enjoy the light in the world — and you, the Light of the World! Amen.


LONGER, LIGHTER DAYS

Jesus went up a mountain to pray with Peter, James and John. But as He prayed, Jesus’ clothes got brighter and brighter, until the Apostles couldn’t look at Him! Moses and Elijah appeared, and a voice from heaven said, “This is my chosen Son. Listen to Him.” Then the light faded, and the Apostles were alone with Jesus.

This is the time of year when you start to notice the days getting longer. Even though it’s still winter, it’s light outside when you get up in the morning and it hasn’t gotten dark yet when you get home from school, even if you stayed later for basketball practice or Scouts.

Light makes people feel good. The long days of winter are harder to take when it seems like it’s always dark. That’s one reason this week’s Gospel (Luke 9:28-36) is special: It’s all about light!

What happens in the Gospel reading is called the “transfiguration” — a fancy way of saying a change. Jesus is alone with some of His closest friends, and He decides to give them a glimpse of what He looks like in heaven. Jesus shows them Himself as pure light.

Why is it exciting when the days get longer? More light means more heat, for one thing; when it’s still light outside in the evening, it makes you think of the warm summer nights you know are coming.

Light helps the ground thaw, so hibernating animals start to wake up. Light helps plants and trees grow. Light is even good for people: Scientists have shown it affects emotions.

Jesus’ light affected the Apostles that way. When they saw Him change and become as bright as the sun, they automatically realized He was the Son of God (although it didn’t hurt for God to say so, too) and wanted to worship Him.

The Apostles learned what plants and people know: We’re supposed to follow the light, especially when it’s the light of God!