Thoughts on Today’s Lessons for Feb. 15, 2015

Elijah’s fiery ascent. Russian Orthodox icon.

This is Transfiguration Sunday, concluding our short Epiphany journey from Christmastide to Lent. We have followed Mark’s account of Jesus, from the wise men’s homage to his baptism by John and his early ministry. Today Epiphany ends as a glowing Jesus meets the patriarchs Elijah and Moses on a mountain top. Our first reading tells the ancient story of Elijah taken up into heaven in a fiery chariot while Elisha, his young successor, looks on in awe.

Psalm: Psalm 50:1-6

From Elijah’s fiery chariot to the brilliant rising sun and consuming flame of God’s justice in today’s Psalm, our readings glow with the light of God revealed in shining glory. Throughout Epiphany we find the light of God shining in the darkness.

Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:3-6

God brought light into the world, and God shows us the glory of God’s image in Christ, Paul reminds the people in his second letter to the church in Corinth. Because we believe, we see the light that is denied to those who do not believe, says Paul. We are called to proclaim Jesus, not ourselves, while we serve others humbly in service for Jesus’ sake.

Gospel: Mark 9:2-9

On the first Sunday of Epiphany, we watched John baptizing Jesus in the Jordan, and Jesus heard God’s voice saying, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” Now Jesus is transfigured atop a holy mountain with Moses, the giver of the law, and Elijah, who was transported into heaven to await the arrival of God’s Kingdom and the Messiah. Jesus’ face and garments glow in a scene that recalls Moses receiving God’s commandments atop another mountain. Jesus is revealed as Messiah as his friends Peter, James, and John look on in awe, and God’s voice rings out again: “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”