Last Sunday After Epiphany
March 2nd, 2025
Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah"--not knowing what he said. While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!" When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen. Luke 9:28-36
The transfiguration is the turning point in Jesus' ministry. From that moment on, his aim is Jerusalem and the final passion and his death on the cross. The three disciples, Peter, James and John get a momentary glimpse of the true nature of their friend and teacher. The vision is overwhelming to them, and that vision secures their hearts for what lies ahead. Years ago, my sister Pegi was facing what would turn out to be her final surgery. As I entered her hospital room and glimpsed my parents on each side of the bed, I saw my beautiful sister, more beautiful than ever despite her lack of hair. Her faced glowed with the love surrounding her, above and beyond that moment in time. I knew she would die soon in that moment, and the vision gave me deep hope for the future, despite the wrenching grief and loss to come. Sometimes we are given a glimpse of the reign of God here on earth. May those glimpses sustain us for what lies ahead.
A Litany for the Transfiguration
Holy Creator, the heart and breath of life
you give us glimpses of your majestic beauty
and place your love deep in our fragile spirits.
Lord Jesus, take us to the mountain top and renew your love within us.
We are often weak, fearful and anxious now
these times have rattled our peace and calm
we feel we are daily on unsteady ground.
Lord Jesus, take us to the mountain top and renew your love within us.
You show us your eternal and abiding goodness
in the beauty around us and in those who love us
we know you are here abiding with us in all seasons.
Lord Jesus, take us to the mountain top and renew your love within us.
The light might grow dim and the world grow cold
yet you will bring light and warmth again to us.
Lord Jesus, take us to the mountain top and renew your love within us.
The cruel and the greedy might try to oppress
but your love is here with us now and is eternal.
Lord Jesus, take us to the mountain top and renew your love within us.
Let us breathe in your mountain top moment
so we might be faithful and strong for our times.
Lord Jesus, take us to the mountain top and renew your love within us. Amen.
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