"It Is Good To Be Here"

"Rabbi, it is good that we are here!"
Mark 9:5

Today is the Feast of the Transfiguration; the time when we reflect on this momentous occasion when our Lord chose to reveal Himself in His glory to His chosen apostles. For a moment, heaven came down to earth. In the words of St. Peter, "We had been eyewitnesses of his majesty," (2 Pet. 1:16). On that occasion, Peter uttered the words of the text cited above. How good it was to be in the presence of the glorified Christ. Many of us, as we take a few moments to meditate on these words, and this incident, echo that sentiment. How awesome it would have been to see our Lord in His glory!

Yet, numerous opportunities are afforded us of just such an experience. What are we doing with them? I am referring to the many instances in which we can experience the Lord in prayer or at Mass. But someone will say, "Oh, God doesn't do that anymore. We can't experience something that good." Is this so? All we need do is look at the saints for a refutation to this statement. Many of the saints had very powerful experiences of God's presence. Why can't we?

The difference is that they were men and women of devout prayer. They lived in the presence of God. Their hearts yearned for Him continually. So God rewarded such fervor with extraordinary revelations of Himself. If we would have a similar devotion we too could have such experiences.

However, we will not get there in a moment, or even in a day. For some it may take the better part of a lifetime. The point is not really the experience. The point is that as we draw near to God, He will draw near to us and fill us with Himself. This is the whole purpose of our lives. It is to know God; to love and serve Him. We were made for Him. He longs for us. There is an intimacy which is intended. It fills the untold number of gaps we currently experience.

Today, determine that you will lay aside whatever keeps you from quiet moments alone with God. Go to Him in prayer. Seek Him diligently. Take time with it. Don't rush. Allow yourself to wait upon Him. Bask in His presence. Give yourself completely to Him. See what will happen, and don't be too surprised if He chooses to bless you with a revelation of Himself allowing you to see Him in His glory. Then you too will utter the words of St. Peter: "Rabbi, it is good to be here."