In today's world, we witness endless political and economic tensions. One of the primary factors contributing to these tensions is the pursuit of worldly glory. Worldly glory refers to the recognition, admiration, and prestige that individuals or nations receive from the world for their achievements, wealth, power, or status.
There are at least two key indicators of worldly glory: wealth and material possessions. This includes accumulating riches, living luxurious lifestyles, and owning valuable assets.
Second, military might and dominance. This appears in possessing military power, controlling territories, and exerting influence over other nations.
To maintain worldly glory, individuals and nations often engage in a spirit of competition, continuously achieving and innovating. They also defend and grow their power, wealth, and status through strategic maneuvers.
However, all worldly glory is fleeting. History has shown us the rise and fall of great empires, such as Babylon and Rome. Even today, the current superpower countries are facing challenges from emerging nations.
As Thomas Hobbes astutely observed, "In the nature of man, we find three principal causes of quarrel. First, competition; secondly, diffidence; thirdly, glory."
In stark contrast to worldly glory, today's Gospel reading (Luke 9:28b-36) reveals a different kind of glory rooted in prayer and faithfulness to God. Jesus' Transfiguration on the mountain, where He appeared in dazzling white alongside Moses and Elijah, demonstrates a glory not tied to economic or political power.
This glory is a gift received through prayer and is reserved for those faithful to God. As Jesus prepares to face His Passion, He gives His disciples a glimpse of His divine nature, confirming His identity as the Son of God.
The Transfiguration is a powerful reminder of Jesus' glory and God's love and approval. As believers, we are called to join Jesus in His glory by denying ourselves, taking up our crosses, and following Him.
As 1 Peter 5:4 promises, "When the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away." Those who receive this endless and eternal glory from Jesus will experience everlasting peace, free from all fears and anxieties.