S. Leo the Great: Sermon 51

THE Lord revealed his glory to chosen witnesses, and made his bodily form, which he had in common with others, so radiant with light that his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow. In this transfiguration his main object was to remove the scandal of the cross from the hearts of his disciples; and to prevent their faith being shaken by the humiliation of his voluntary Passion; by revealing the excellency of his hidden glory.

BUT with no less providence the hope of holy Church was established, that the whole body of Christ should learn how great was the transformation that had been granted to it, in that its members could promise themselves a share in that glory which shone forth in the head. But to strengthen the Apostles, and lead them to the fulness of knowledge, there was further instruction in this miracle. For there appeared Moses and Elias, that IS, the Law and the Prophets, talking with him; so that, in those five men there present, it might most truly be fulfilled which was spoken: Jn the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

WHAT more sure, what more certain than this word in the proclamation of which the trumpet of both the Old and the New Testament peals forth, and the testimonies of ancient witnesses agree with the Gospel teaching? For the pages of both covenants agree with each other; and the brightness of the present glory manifestly and openly reveals him whom the former figures had promised under the veil of mysteries.

PETER the Apostle, stirred by these revelations of mysteries, despising worldly matters and scorning earthly things, was carried away by a certain excessive desire for things eternal: and, filled with rapture at the open vision, he longed to dwell with Jesus there where he was rejoicing in his glory. Whence he said, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. But the Lord made no reply to this suggestion, showing, not indeed that it was wicked, but that he was desiring something inordinate, because the world could not be saved without Christ's death; and by the Lord's example here, the faith of believers is called upon to realize that although there should be no doubt as to the promise of blessedness, yet are we to understand that among the trials of this present life we must ask for endurance before glory.