Today we conclude the Epiphany Season (Epiphany= to reveal, to make clear). During Epiphany we were reminded that Jesus really is the Promised Savior as we see Him do miracles and listen to Him teach. Generally, Jesus’ glory was hidden. It need to be so, for if God were to reveal His full glory to us humans, we would be consumed. But today we see a glimpse of His full glory. For more than 500 years, the Church has celebrated this Sunday known as the Festival of the Transfiguration. The word “transfiguration” simply means “a change in appearance.” It refers to the account in the Gospel lesson for today when Jesus shined forth in all His heavenly glory. Jesus gave his disciples a glimpse of his glory, because the cross was coming. Jesus left that mountain and headed to Jerusalem where he would suffer, die, and rise again for all mankind. As we see Jesus’ glory today, may we gain an even greater appreciation for his love for us.
Matthew 17:1-9 New International Version (NIV)
The Transfiguration
17 After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 2 There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. 3 Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus.
4 Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.”
5 While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”
6 When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. 7 But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” 8 When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus.
9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them, “Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”