Are you finding life hard?

HEAVENLY HELP IS AT HAND WHEN TIMES ARE HARD
Luke 9:28–36

Are you going through a hard time?  Do you feel anxious, weak, or alone?  If so, today’s Gospel offers deep comfort and hope.  Jesus, knowing the suffering and death that lay ahead, climbed the mountain to pray.  He took with Him His closest companions -  Peter, James, and John - not to escape what was coming, but to draw strength from His Father in Heaven.

There, on the mountain, something extraordinary happened: Jesus was transfigured.  His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became dazzling white.  Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared, speaking with Him about His approaching death in Jerusalem.  This was no coincidence.  It was Heaven’s way of assuring Jesus, and us, that He was not alone.  The law (Moses) and the prophets (Elijah) stood with Him, and God the Father’s voice rang out from the cloud: “This is my Son, the Chosen One. Listen to Him.”

Peter, overwhelmed by the glory, wanted to stay there.  Who wouldn’t want to remain in such heavenly light?  But the moment passed.  When the cloud lifted, they saw only Jesus, no longer transfigured, but alone.  Yet now He was filled with the strength and peace to go forward to Jerusalem, to the cross, and ultimately to the glory of the resurrection.

This Gospel gives us two powerful lessons:

When we face trials, we are never alone.  Heaven is close, even if we cannot see it.  In our darkest hours, the saints and angels are with us, and our loving Father watches over us.

Listen to Jesus.  In a world of noise and fear, His words bring peace, clarity, and courage.  He speaks through Scripture, prayer, and the quiet moments of our hearts.

So, if you’re struggling today, remember: Jesus understands.  He’s walked this road before you.  And just as He found strength through prayer and heavenly reassurance, so can we.

Lord Jesus, give us the grace to stay close to You, especially when life is hard.  Let us feel the nearness of Heaven and hear Your voice guiding us forward. Amen.

https://fatherfrancismaple.co.uk