Some thoughts for the 19th Sunday of Ordinary Time which offers a moment of deep reflection on divine glory and global peace.
This Sunday offers a moment of deep reflection on divine glory and global peace. On Thursday, we marked the Transfiguration. N.T. Wright describes this as the moment Jesus becomes the new Temple. God’s shekinah/glory, filled with mercy, justice, and aroha settles entirely on him. Flanked by Moses (law) and Elijah (Prophets), Jesus fulfils the historic covenants and offers a vivid preview of creation flooded and renewed with God’s redeeming presence. In stark contrast, Thursday was also Hiroshima Day, making this Peace Sunday. We remember all the victims of the atomic bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. We also acknowledge our Pacific neighbours impacted by decades of unwanted nuclear testing. Today, we hold in our hearts a deep sadness for people still facing violence and war worldwide, especially in Ukraine and the Middle East. We are encouraged to live the Transfiguration hope, joining with others longing for the peace that passes understanding, that turns swords into ploughshare...