I should say from the outset that both the Transfiguration event and the relationship with Jesus as “Son of God” and what is meant by the term ‘Son of Man’ are each in their own right challenging theological ideas that have kept biblical scholars debating for centuries. Just because we and others find aspects of Scripture difficult to comprehend does not mean we shouldn’t do the work of wrestling with them, in fact, aren’t some of our greatest rewards the ones that we have to work for. So let’s commit to climbing the mountain this week and explore what may be revealed about both Jesus as ‘Son' and us as his followers.

Consider some of the strong relationships you have in your life. What have you shared and/or journeyed through together? My hunch is that for most of us, the strongest relationships we have are with those who we have had the most profound experiences, whether they be joys and sorrows. Big moments are important in our faith relationship as well. I know my Christian journey has strengthened and grown in the profound moments of my life. We in church land like to call these “Mountain Top Experiences”. Peter, James, and John are having both a literal and metaphoric mountaintop experience. As they see Jesus transfigured they themselves are profoundly impacted and transformed. Consider the impact of these three men on the early church. I can’t help but wonder if what they experienced in witnessing God in relationship, as Father and Son on that mountain, had a significant contribution to that. When you have seen the majesty of God and the interaction with a God in relationship it can’t help but move you and transform you as well. SP

Questions

Prayer

God, revealed in relationship, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, I thank you that you have revealed yourself through both relationship and experience. Continue to reveal more of yourself and continue to transform me that I might be more like Jesus. I pray this in his name, Amen.