For Sunday
The Last Sunday after the Epiphany

Collect

O God, who before the passion of your only-begotten Son revealed his glory upon the holy mountain: Grant to us that we, beholding by faith the light of his countenance, may be strengthened to bear our cross, and be changed into his likeness from glory to glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Reading

From Mark 9:2-9

“Then Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.””

Reflection

I’m not sure what they thought would happen up that mountain. It is clear that this miraculous event throws them off. But the more times I read this story, the less I’m sure this has anything to do with them. Or more specifically, what they are supposed to do.

This is a story about Jesus, but we can’t help but think it has to do with disciples doing something.

This is why Peter’s response to the moment sticks out like a sore thumb. He thinks it is time for him to do something. But what is he supposed to do? Well, what any good servant would do: make the guests comfortable, of course!

It’s also interesting that this idea, of making Jesus and these two apparent apparitions comfortable would coincide with Peter trying to make that comfort permanent. He doesn’t offer them some tea and cookies, but to build something—a temple, a monument, something that will draw honor to this place.

In a moment of incredible being, Peter is looking at doing.

The Transfiguration feels timeless. But there is also something really present to it. Something for this pandemic moment. This is a story about being, listening, and heeding the teachings of Jesus while distracted by something way bigger than us.

A story that reveals that the desire to act, to do rather than be, may be both premature and misguided. Not in all things, but in this thing. In a moment of God’s power: in transfiguration, change, and divine action: they are invited to listen and heed.

These days, we keep asking each other “what is the right thing to do?” And we keep trying to solve our problem. Perhaps fixing it and seeking comfort is well-intentioned avoidance.

Perhaps the point is to live through this moment. To keep listening, watching, and following. So we can experience it, be in it, and learn from it.