The Transfiguration event helps us to see things anew. When we are on the verge of despair and hope seems distant, a vision or inspiration can change everything. The people of God were suffering greatly under foreign oppression and these alien powers seemed overwhelming and indestructible. But Daniel’s vision told a different story. In vivid and awe-inspiring imagery, God was revealed as the ruling force in the world. Close at hand was one ‘like a Son of Man,’ whom Christians later identified with Jesus Christ. The point of the vision was to give hope. The injustice and negativity of the world were temporary. God would triumph and the Son of Man would be the universal ruler. In these dark times, this vision can give us hope and courage. God is in charge, Christ rules.

The same brilliant light of Daniel’s vision shone around Jesus on the mountaintop during the Transfiguration. We are given a glimpse of the divinity of Jesus. He was speaking with Moses and Elijah, signifying that Jesus stood at the end of a long line of prophets and servants of God. God’s plan for humanity’s salvation was nearing a climax. The disciples did not understand, and there are still many things that we cannot explain. But we know that we are called to follow, to serve, to love, and to let that same brilliant light shine through us. The light directs us to our purpose till the end.