the spirit of suffering
"This is My beloved Son on Whom My favor rests." —Matthew 17:5
Jesus was transfigured about eight days after He first predicted His passion and death (Lk 9:28) and the day before His second prediction (Lk 9:37, 44ff). The transfigured and conquering Christ was supposed to open us to the transfixed and crucified Christ. However, despite Jesus' glorified body and dazzling clothes, the appearance of Moses and Elijah, the overshadowing cloud, and the voice of the Father, the Transfiguration did not work. Jesus' disciples weren't yet able to accept suffering and death as part of the gospel (Lk 9:45).
Even Jesus' death and resurrection did not motivate His disciples to listen to the message of the cross. Only by the Holy Spirit of Pentecost can we be empowered to overcome our natural aversion to pain and suffering. Openness and even happiness in the face of suffering is one of the best ways to prove the presence of the Spirit in our lives. Only the Spirit-filled leave the upper room of fear and expose themselves to suffering and persecution. Therefore, "happy are you when you are insulted for the sake of Christ, for then God's Spirit in Its glory has come to rest on you" (1 Pt 4:14).
Prayer: Father, send the Spirit of Truth to reveal to me the privilege of suffering for love of You (Phil 1:29).
Promise: "I saw One like a Son of Man coming, on the clouds of heaven; when He reached the Ancient One and was presented before Him, He received dominion, glory, and kingship; nations and peoples of every language serve Him." —Dn 7:13-14
Praise: Praise You, Jesus, Light of the World (Jn 8:12). Alleluia!
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape Power in The Spirit on audio AV 64-1 or video V-64.)
Rescript: †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 25, 2008
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