Kitty Williams, Director of Music Ministries
This Sunday is Transfiguration Sunday!
“What’s that?” one might ask.
Well, it’s a holy day that often gets overlooked. But if the disciple Peter had his way, it would be a huge ordeal.
(You will find the biblical reference in these passages: Matthew 17:2, Mark 9:2-3, Luke 9:28-36 and 2 Peter 1:16-18.)
The gospels are contradictory as to whether the transfiguration took place six or eight days after Jesus told his disciples of his death and resurrection.
The writers all agree that Jesus led Peter, James and John to a mountain.
On the mountain, Jesus’ face and clothes literally began to glow.
Then all of a sudden, Moses and Elijah were standing and talking with him.
Peter was ecstatic!
He wanted to build three shrines in that place, one each for Jesus, Moses and Elijah.
Peter’s suggestion was not even acknowledged when a cloud came over them and they heard the voice of God saying, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!”
This gospel witness has so much packed into its implications and meaning.
Peter’s reaction is the focus of this reflection.
Mountaintop experiences are the best!
It’s a time and place where we are given a glimpse of what is true and good.
Mountaintop experiences give us hope and encouragement.
Peter’s first reaction was to build a shrine. Then God spoke.
What if after it was all over, Peter continued to plead to build the shrines?
He would have missed the message, “This is my beloved son – listen to him.”
My prayer is that we can provide space (time and place) for mountaintop experiences and that we can truly listen for the voice of God.
Here is a prayer by Clara Scott:
Open my eyes, that I may see glimpses of truth thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key that shall unclasp and set me free.
Silently now I wait for thee, Ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine!
First Reflections 