For we cannot always remain on Mount Hermon, we cannot always kneel before the altar in adoration.  Just as St Peter wished to prolong the wonder of the Transfiguration by making three tents, so at times we may wish to prolong that moment of Communion when we receive Our Blessed Lord at the altar rails.  But such a wish must give way to the uncompromising realities of life.  For soon another week must begin and we are back again in the world.

It was so with the three Apostles after the Transfiguration.  The next day when they came down from Mount Hermon they were met by a scene of discord and confusion.  The other Apostles had just attempted unsuccessfully to cure a boy with epilepsy and a crowd of sightseers was rapidly gathering.  The three Apostles were brought very sharply down to earth.  But what made all the difference was that they had not left Jesus behind them on Mount Hermon.  He had come down with them.