Here is part of today’s Gospel reading, from St Matthew: ‘After six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain apart. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his garments became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish, I will make three booths here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking, when lo, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”’

This magnificent icon comes from Sinai, and dates from the twelfth century. It shows the scene, with our Lord, flanked by Moses (the Law) and Elijah (the prophets), with Peter, James and John below. Rays of light flow outwards in the shape of a diagonal cross, recalling the subject matter of their conversation, the departure (that is, the ‘exodus’) which Christ was to accomplish at Jerusalem. The ‘bright cloud’ is also indicated above the disciples’ heads.

May that bright cloud of the Lord’s presence overshadow us also this day, especially in these times when so much challenges us and our loved ones, and may we be drawn into that bright circle of light and love. May God bless you this day.