According to a survey, the four biggest fears of people are :

• Fear of heartbreak/rejection. “Not being loved back”, “Getting my heart broken again” …
• Fear of loneliness. “People need people but where is that person?”
• Fear of failure. “Not fulfilling my true potential” 
• Fear of death. “The problem with hello is goodbye”

In discussing death, Jesus knew when his days were numbered. One of his biggest concerns was for the apostles he has loved, he has taught and given a mission. How will they deal with death? Hence Jesus brought them up the mountain and three things happened:

1. First, Moses and Elijah appeared. Since the beginning, God already promised the Messiah and the many prophets, Moses and Elijah included, have talked about the coming of the Messiah. This is a reminder that God has a plan for everything.  Even with the death of Jesus, God had a plan for everything. 
2. Second, a cloud came. As in the old testament, God appeared to the Israelites in a form of a cloud. This too, is a reminder that even in the most difficult times of our lives, God is with us.  
3. Third, the words of God, “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.” This is a very beautiful reminder that there is life after this life and it does not end with death for people who lived a fruitful life. As Jesus has always been saying, “The will of the Father and not my will.”

In all of these, the apostles Peter, James, and John could not still comprehend what was happening and what just happened was all about. The transfiguration reminds us that many things have happened, are happening, and will happen in our lives that we do not comprehend and understand. Some, indeed, can be very painful and some can be very frightening. Yet, in all of these, be hopeful. Why? God has a plan, we are never alone even in the most difficult times of our lives, and it does not end in death.