I've been thinking about...

...The Transfiguration.

“What’s that?” you say. Glad you asked!

Here is how the HarperCollins Bible Dictionary (which is actually longer than the Bible itself) defines it (in a description that is longer than the actual scriptural account!):

The transfiguration is the title given to an event in Jesus’ life in which he was “transfigured” (or in Greek, “metamorphoo”), Moses and Elijah appeared to him, and a Voice spoke from Heaven. (See Mark 9:2-8, Matthew 17:1-8, Luke 9:38-36, 2 Peter 1:16-18)

The purpose of the transfiguration is primarily for the three disciples present. This is clear from the Voice, which is directed to them, and the frequent use of the pronoun “them.” What the Voice was for Jesus at his baptism, “Thou art” (Mark 1:11), the Voice at the transfiguration was for Peter, James, and John, “This is” (Mark 9:7).

The place where this took place is described as a “high mountain.” Suggested sites are Mt. Tabor (the traditional site but not a high mountain), Mt. Carmel (out of the way), and Mt. Hermon (a high mountain), but the lack of specificity indicates that what was important for the church was not where but what occurred.

Okay, so it isn’t the easiest definition in the world to follow, but hopefully it will all make a little more sense once we jump into the story together in today’s worship service!

Yours in the journey, Rev. Brian