Second Sunday of Lent

Theme: “While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white” (Luke 9:28b-36).

 “Jesus took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray. While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white. And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem. Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep, but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ But he did not know what he was saying.
While he was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that said, ‘This is my chosen Son; listen to him.’ After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. They fell silent and did not at that time tell anyone what they had seen.”

Reflection

 Jesus’ transfiguration was wonderful beyond human imagination. Not understanding what he was saying, Peter suggested to settle there by putting up three tents.  Peter, James, and John were not alone as witnesses, Moses (Law) and Elijah (prophets) stood with Jesus to confirm that Law and Prophets finally have their completion in Jesus and his mission.      

 Transfiguration presents the bigger picture.  The timeless questions of sufferings, tragedies, and injustice and our incapacity to come with sensible answers bring cynicism, hopelessness, and distrust.  How come bad things happen to good people?   What is the point of the cross? 

  Well here’s the point.  Let’s look at life from the lens of Jesus.  Transfiguration is God’s way of telling us to end our hopelessness, cynicism, and unbelief.  The cross reveals glory just as darkness reveals the brightness and beauty of the stars.  Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors, says the African proverb.  Any resurrection always precedes a kind of crucifixion.