Scripture: Matthew
17:1-9
The event recorded in this reading makes the second bookend
to the Epiphany season. The first bookend is the visit of the Magi which
revealed Jesus as the promised King of the Jews, and showed that Jesus had come
for all people. The Transfiguration is the second bookend and it shows Jesus in
his glory and reveals him as the Son of God who had come into the world. Liturgically,
the Transfiguration is the mountain top event before entering the valley of
Lent. These events make us mindful of who Jesus is – God incarnate – as he
heads to the cross to redeem mankind by the shedding of his blood.
Teaching
The similarities between Israel’s experience of God and the
disciples’ experience of Jesus at the transfiguration are interesting. Each
takes place at a mountain. In each, God speaks to the terror of those who hear.
In each, God’s glory is beheld in a cloud. In each, there is a call to hear God’s
Word. What we see in this event is the continuation and fulfillment of what
happened in Exodus through the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of
Jesus.
It is worth noting that the whole of the Old Testament is
symbolized in Jesus’ visitors on the Mount of Transfiguration. Four times in
the Gospel of Matthew Jesus refers to the Law and the Prophets in connection
with his ministry and teaching. At the Transfiguration the Law stands
personified in Moses, who recorded the Law as God delivered it to him. And the
Prophets are personified in Elijah, the prophet who never died, but was taken
to heaven in a fiery chariot. Both of these men were (and are) great heroes of
the faith who proclaimed God’s Word to his people.
Life
How should we respond to this reading? What impact does it have
on us?
We recall Peter’s words, “Lord, it is good that we are here!”
The wonder and awe of beholding the glorified Christ with the two prophets
filled him with joy in being in Jesus’ presence. This is a good attitude for us
to emulate when we read his Word, gather for worship, and receive his Sacrament
at the altar. It displays amazement and thanksgiving at who Jesus is and what
he has done for us.
It is also good to recall God’s words, “This is my beloved
Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” We are called to listen to
Jesus, to hear his voice crying through the Word of God, as he proclaims God’s
truth and mercy to us. This is an attitude of humility as we submit ourselves
to Jesus’ command, word, and promise.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, you are God in human flesh, and even the saints
in heaven come to you when they are summoned. Thank you, for show us a glimpse
of your glory, and thank you for your comforting words, “Rise, and have no
fear.” We confess that sometimes you Word strikes fear in our hearts as it shows
us our sin. Forgive us, O Lord! Comfort us with your salvation, and grant that
we would hear your voice in the Scriptures and follow you in our whole lives.
Amen.
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