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February 3, 2008 - Transfiguration of our Lord Sunday
Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up
a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone
like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them
Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Then Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us
to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses,
and one for Elijah." While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed
them, and from the cloud a voice said, "This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well
pleased; listen to him!" When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were
overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, "Get up and do not be afraid."
And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.
-- Matthew 17:1-8
Imagine the experience of Peter, James and John as they witness not only the
changing of Jesus' appearance, but also the addition of Moses and Elijah – long dead
“greats” of the faith. But what really frightened them was the voice of God from the
cloud. They are so terrified that they physically fall to the ground and move only when
Jesus touches them and comforts them.
What caused their terror? Was it God's voice alone, or was it God's declaration that
Jesus was God's Son? If it is the latter, how ironic that the Son of God, the greatest of
the great is the one who both causes fear and comforts them.
As we transition from the season of Epiphany to the season of Lent we are reminded that
God's Son, Jesus Christ is both divine and human, powerful and humble, awe-inspiring and
comforting, Alpha and Omega. Thanks be to God for the gift of Jesus who humbled himself
for us all.
We pray: O God, in the transfiguration of your Son, you confirmed the
mysteries of the faith, by the witness of Moses and Elijah, and in the voice from the
bright cloud declaring Jesus your beloved Son, you foreshadowed our adoption as your
children. Make us heirs with Christ of your glory, and bring us to enjoy its fullness,
through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen
Lessons for Transfiguration of our Lord Sunday:
- Psalm 2
- Exodus 24:12-18
- 2 Peter 1:16-21
- Matthew 17:1-9
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible,
copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the
National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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