The Transfiguration Of Our Lord Jesus Christ (Vardavar)

“And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed,

and his clothes became dazzling white”

(Luke 9:29)

Vardavar is the Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord Jesus Christ, one of the Five Major Feasts of the Armenian Apostolic Church. This feast lifts us to Mount Tabor, where the apostles beheld the divine glory of Christ and heard the voice of God the Father: “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him.” (Matthew 17:5). That moment was not only a miracle, but also a revelation, revealing the truth that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and truly God.

The Transfiguration reminds us that the light of God has the power to transform a person's life. The Gospel tells us that the face of Christ became radiant while He was praying. This teaches us that prayer is not merely a matter of words, but an encounter with God, and every true encounter with Him transforms us. Whoever sincerely stands before God finds that their heart is gradually filled with light, their thoughts are purified, and their life receives new meaning.

Today the world is often filled with darkness—wars, uncertainty, fear, and division. People have much information, but little light in their hearts. We see outward success, yet inward emptiness. It is in this reality that the Feast of the Transfiguration reminds us that Christ is the greatest Light of the world. Only His presence can bring peace to a troubled heart, give hope to the discouraged, and strength to those who are weary.

Vardavar is an invitation for each of us to climb the Mount Tabor of our own lives. That mountain may be our prayer, our repentance, our forgiveness, or our love for our neighbor. When we choose to live in the light of Christ, our own lives are also transformed.

May this blessed Feast of the Transfiguration renew our faith, enlighten our minds, and purify our hearts. May the light of Christ shine in our families, our communities, and throughout the whole world, so that, like the apostles, we too may recognize His glory and bear witness through our lives to His boundless love.

Deacon MIKAYEL MARGARYAN