What is Hoped
Piety
Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen.…But without faith, it is impossible to please him, for anyone who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. (Hebrews 11:1,6)
Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them; then from the cloud came a voice, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” Suddenly, looking around, the disciples no longer saw anyone but Jesus alone with them. Mark 9:7-8
Study
Hebrews chapter eleven draws upon the people and events of the Old Testament to paint an inspiring portrait of religious faith, firm and unyielding in the face of any obstacles that confront it.
Through faith God guarantees the blessings to be hoped for from him, providing evidence in the gift of faith that what he promises will eventually come to pass (Heb 11:1). Because they accepted in faith God’s guarantee of the future, the biblical personages discussed in Heb 11:3–38 were themselves commended by God (Heb 11:2). Christians have even greater reason to remain firm in faith since they, unlike the Old Testament men and women of faith, have perceived the beginning of God’s fulfillment of his messianic promises. (Notes in the New American Bible, Revised Edition - bold type added)
The juxtaposition of Hebrews 11 and the Luminous Mystery of the Transfiguration strikes me as curiously odd. After all, Peter, James, and John did not have to rely upon faith. They had first-hand knowledge and direct experience with Jesus. That was their “ticket” to the top of the mountain where they added to the evidence with direct interaction with God, Moses, and Elijah. Such direct experience is beyond our reach and understanding. Or is it?
Action
Peter, James, and John handed down the direct experience of the messianic promises. We can experience the fulfillment of these promises as they are re-enacted in daily Mass and by remaining observant to the luminous mystery of the world that surrounds us every day.
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