for the day by Christian Education Forum

 Jesus Christ: Feast of transfiguration of our Lord / Glorification of our Lord

Mathew 17:1-18
V8 – “As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”

Here we are given access to a private moment that Jesus shares with Peter, James, and John. Moses and Elijah are present for the event too. Peter grappled with the weight of this moment in his impetuous desire to build three tents and stay on the mountain top. He had witnessed the revealing of Jesus’ glory and honor (2 Pt 1:7-8) and it seemed appropriate to remain there longer. The glorification of the Messiah was a moment so hoped for that one would expect to enjoy it longer, but Jesus had other plans. It is a curious thing that Jesus would tell the three disciples to keep this vision secret until after the Son of Man is raised from the dead. 

We may ponder two conclusions from this: First, this vision is not for spectators. The mountain top experience, as great as it may be, is not to be an infatuation. There is more to our faith than simply seeing Jesus in his glory. While many long for a similar vision or experience, we must recognize that Jesus calls us to journey down the mountain. In the valley there is work to be done. The glorification of Jesus is to be connected with the full life story of Jesus. His healing, teaching, and sacrificial ministry all shed light on the nature of his glory. The same Jesus who invited the three to the mountain top also calls them to participate in his ministry down in the valley. 

Second, Jesus' transfiguration can only be understood in light of human transformation. The greatest transformation one can experience is in moving from death to life. The glory of Jesus only makes sense in the shadow of the cross and the glow of the resurrection. Those who would linger on the mountaintop would miss the way of the cross. The divinity of Christ must be combined with the transformation of all humanity. Because Jesus’ resurrection makes our resurrection possible, his glory then is seen best when we live resurrected lives.

 
Prayer
Father, help me to see Jesus’ glory while you send us into the valley. Amen
 
Thought for the day
 There is no glory without resurrection.
 
Roshin Abraham, W/O Rev. Larry P Varghese
Sehion Mar Thoma Church, Dallas, TX


Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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