Jesus took Peter and the brothers, James and John, and led them off up a high mountain. Before their very eyes, the way Jesus looked was suddenly changed from the inside out. His face shone like the sun and his clothing became so white it was dazzling. And, lo and behold, they saw Moses and Elijah there too, in deep conversation with Jesus. (Matthew 17: 1 – 3)

Most people can pinpoint the moment when the attraction they felt for someone turned to love. It usually has to do with seeing the person in a new light. As one man described it, “One night I watched as a woman who had been my good friend for many years gently stroked her dying mother’s forehead. I was struck by the sheer tenderness and beauty of the act. I knew them that my feelings for this woman were forever changed”.

Whether it is a simple act of kindness or a bold or courageous gesture, something happens that brings the person’s true character into relief, and the enlightenment leads to love.

Jesus’ Transfiguration is one of those moments of light – a luminous mystery – as Pope John Paul II termed it, in which Jesus is glorified – transfigured – before the eyes of his chosen disciples. They see with utter clarity who Jesus truly is: The son of the living God, and they are filled with awe and a new level of love. Their lives are changed forever.

We cannot command enlightenment any more than we can force ourselves to fall in love. But we can be attentive as we walk with others. The more we notice the small details about our neighbours and God, the more likely we’ll be awake when the big reveal takes place and we can see these people for who they truly are: Beings worthy of unconditional love.