Sunday Readings: Genesis 22.1-2, 9, 10-13, 15-18; Romans 8.31-34; Mark 9.2-10
Jesus led Peter, James, and John up a high mountain apart by themselves. He was transformed before their eyes. His clothes became dazzling white—whiter than snow, whiter than any bleach on earth could make them. Then they saw Elijah and Moses; they were talking with Jesus. Then Peter said, “Teacher, how good it is for us to be here. Let us build three booths, one for you, one for Elijah, and one for Moses.” Peter hardly knew what to say; they were all so afraid. Then a cloud came, overshadowing them, and out of the cloud a voice, “This is my son, my beloved. Listen to him.” Suddenly looking around, they no longer saw anyone with them—only Jesus.
As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus gave them an order, “Tell no one what you have seen until the Son of Man has risen from the dead.” They did what he asked, though they discussed among themselves. “What does rise from the dead mean?” (Mark 9.2-10).
Sunday’s gospel tells a story about vision that surfaces in prayer and anticipates Jesus’ future. The transfiguration challenges us to prayer, vision, and heart for encountering life with Christian commitment. Life at the foot of the mountain will test our vision as it does Peter, James, and John.
The voice from heaven in Sunday’s gospel makes the same claim about Jesus at the transfiguration as it did at his baptism. “This is my beloved Son” (Mark 1.11; 9.7). The baptismal scene launches Jesus’ ministry. The transfiguration scene identifies the time when Jesus’ disciples will begin their ministry. “Listen to him,” the voice says. The disciples hear but don’t understand Jesus’ next words—to tell no one what they have seen until after he has risen from the dead. Then the fishing for people to which Jesus calls them will begin. At this point in their journey the disciples have no idea what resurrection means or what following Jesus will ask of them.
Mark’s gospel is half over as the men and women who follow Jesus in Galilee set off with him to Jerusalem and conflict. They will experience Jesus’ love for them and us endure unto death. This Lent, the first disciples call us to renew our own lifelong journey into Jesus’ paschal mystery.
- What passion to serve the world and its people do you experience?
- What experiences of God’s presence have opened your future?