Tuesday August 6, 2024

Mark 9:2-10

Jesus took with him Peter and James and John and led them up a high mountain where they could be alone by themselves. There in their presence he was transfigured: his clothes became dazzlingly white, whiter than any earthly bleacher could make them.

The transfiguration is an important event in the gospels but it cannot be taken in isolation. What do I mean by that? Yes it was impressive, mesmerizing to see Jesus speaking with Moses and Elijah. It must be an out of this world experience to hear the voice of God, no doubt about that.

What makes this episode preach for me is what happens right before they go up the hill. Our Lord says he is going to die. Remember that! The first passion prediction. Peter rebukes the Lord and steps in front of him. Then our Lord says to his good friend “Get behind me satan! This whole thing is in the Bible. What an episode it is. Obviously everyone is mad about this, they are not talking. They did not leave their houses for this!!!!

Question, how do you do with disappointing news about your future. Do you fall into a depression? Lock the door and drink? We all have gone through this kind of events.

Our Lord takes three people who are having the hardest time. He takes them up the mountain, takes them to God in prayer. He wants them and us to know this: life may be spiraling out of control but know that GOD IS STILL IN CONTROL.