Faithful Conversations #1

The Transfiguration of our Lord

Readings:
Exodus 24: 12-18
Psalm 2 or Psalm 99
2 Peter 1: 16-21
Matthew 17: 1-9 (Below)

17 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. ² And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became bright as light. ³ Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. ⁴ Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will set up three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” ⁵ While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” ⁶ When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. ⁷ But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” ⁸ And when they raised their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone. ⁹ As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”

REFLECTION:
Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain and the three Apostles had what could only be described as a “mind-blowing” experience. The presence of Moses (representing the Law) and Elijah (representing the Prophets) would certainly have been meaningful for these three men, steeped as they were in the knowledge of the Old Testament. Peter was so overwhelmed he wanted to stay there (“I will set up three tents”).  But, notice that God spoke directly to them and put the attention on Jesus Christ (“listen to Him!”). Moses and Elijah were no longer visible to them — just Christ shining brightly! Ultimately, they had to come down from the mountain and engage in the world once again. They did so, however, changed from their experience. In 2 Peter, 1: 19, we have that beautiful commentary on the Transfiguration: “You will do well to be attentive to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.”

Rykken

PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, Help us carry the vision of the Transfiguration in our hearts this day, as a lamp shining in a dark place. Though we would like to stay on the mountain, give us the courage to walk into the world and be a light to those around us. In your name we pray, Amen.