…Opening To…

I caught a glimpse of Your splendor in the corner of my eye the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. And it was like a flash of lightning reflected off the sky, and I know I’ll never be the same. (Third Day, “Show Me Your Glory”)

…Listening In…

He was transformed in front of them, and his clothes were amazingly bright, brighter than if they had been bleached white. ⁴ Elijah and Moses appeared and were talking with Jesus. (Mark 9:2-4; context)

…Filling Up…

After the sun spills out of the distant horizon, something strange and altogether unexpected happens. As the sun continues to rise, you notice the line of the horizon crumbling into the ocean. You see far-flung images as your vision circles the globe. You snap your eyes shut, unable to catalogue the expanse of imagery.

Near as I can tell, this is how Peter, James, and John must feel during the event known as the Transfiguration. With Jesus leading, the foursome hikes up a high mountain, a pastime not unknown to Jesus’ friends, who are always chasing him up hills and through deserts. But this time, at the top, something new happens. The three disciples look at Jesus and, with neither warning nor preparation, they see far past all reasonable limits of normal human vision.

Peter, James, and John look at Jesus with new eyes. And the biological horizon limiting their perception crumbles. Until now, they have been used to seeing only what they expect to see. Until now, they have been lulled to sleep by the monotony of the mundane. Until now, they have looked at Jesus, but have never seen him. Until now.

The horizon of Jesus’ body cannot contain his dazzling glory, and the disciples see him as he really is. The horizon between this life and the next cannot veil their eyes, and they see Jesus talking with Moses and Elijah, two of the great prophets they had heard stories about their whole lives. (to be continued tomorrow…)

…Praying For…

Dear God, your movement extends far past my ability to see it. Help me never to forget that my eyes and my faith limit my trust in you, even though your trustworthiness is without bounds. In Jesus Christ’s name I pray. Amen.

…Sending Out…

I leave this moment with you, God, knowing that with you all things are possible.