Once again, God gives instructions for his priests and for the high priest in particular. These people are set aside so that they may intercede for the people through the presentation of offerings and they are called to set an example of holiness for the whole power of Israel. With such great responsibility comes a warning of dire consequences for failure to obey the Lord.
Jesus takes Peter, James and John with Him up the mountain where His face and His clothing are transfigured, so bright is the vision of holiness that beholds them that the disciples are scarcely able to view the events unfolding before them.
Clearly Peter has absolutely no understanding of this event and suggests they do something practical and make three tents! He does however recognise that it is wonderful to be present. Jesus also foretells that the Son of Man will rise again but the disciples cannot comprehend the concept of the resurrection.
Having witnessed this incredible vision and heard the voice of God speak from the cloud, something they would have been familiar with from scripture, they descend from the mountain and return to reality. Now they are faced with an evil spirit which has inhabited the body of a young boy. The other disciples have been unable to cast out this demon for their faith is too weak.
Jesus commands the evil spirit to leave and it does so, throwing the boy into convulsions, leaving him for dead. Jesus lifts the boy up to His feet and later reassures the disciples that this kind of evil spirit can only be cast out through prayer. This act demonstrates to the disciples and to us today the awesome power of prayer.
Scripture: Leviticus 20:22-22:16; Mark 9:1-29; Psalm 43:1-5; Proverbs 10:18
Contemplative Catholic 