This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him (Lk. 9:35).
On the last Sunday before Lent we read the account of the Transfiguration in one of the Synoptic Gospels[1] (this year we read from Luke). This dazzling scene is a turning point in the gospel story because, after coming down the mountain, Jesus begins His journey to Jerusalem where he will be crucified[2]. We read this story because, on Wednesday, we begin our journey through Lent – focusing our eyes on the Crucified One.
On the “Mount of Transfiguration” three disciples were overwhelmed by Christ’s transfigured glory. On the “Mount of Crucifixion” the whole world is astounded by Christ’s disfiguration. By God’s grace we find our selves singing “Amazing love! How can it be that thou my God shouldst die for me?”[3]
We have one purpose in Lent – to so focus our hearts and minds on Jesus that our lives daily conform to God’s command: “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him”. I pray that our Lenten journey would have us all singing: “My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed thee”.
God Bless, Sean
[1] Matthew, Mark & Luke
[2] “Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem” (9:51)
[3] “And can it be”, Charles Wesley