The Demanding Work of Transfiguration

 

                                                               Fr. John Guiliani

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 bright as light. 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 set up three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud 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 raised their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.  As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”

Matthew 17:1-9 NRSVue

In early April we'll travel to Israel to spend time with one of Ruth's step-sisters who has lived in Israel for decades. We look forward to being there during both Passover and Easter with all these important festivals offer for our faith. They are also enthusiast outdoor people and we have begun the conversations about the various rambles we can undertake. There are many biblical stories of God's revelation in the high places of the Sinai and Israel -- think Moses and the Burning Bush, the Ten Commandments, and overlooking the Promised Land from Moab.  

Jesus' ministry also involved high places, including this Sunday's story of the Transfiguration where Moses actually makes a cameo experience, as well as Elijah, who had his own mountain top epiphany. 

There is a mystical quality to this story which would have involved the demanding work of climbing despite a lack of specially designed hiking garb. We will not be donning togas and sandals for historical authenticity. 

We've been fortunate to experience magnificent vistas in different places in North America, Europe, and during previous visits to Israel. There is something profoundly spiritual about these moments, especially when there is a "360" at the summit. I've found that the ascents which involve actual physical work rather than simply driving to the top are the most demanding and satisfying. 

I would appreciate prayers for my ancient knees in the weeks ahead and for our training opportunites. We live in a beautiful area but there isn't much opportunity for vigorous climbing in these parts!

Note: We did climb a modest hill on an icy trail adjacent to the Batawa ski hill before heading to worship this morning.  It was enjoyable but I haven't been transfigured quite yet. 

                                                                       Augustin Kolawole Olayinka