And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus alone. (John 17:8)
This week, people in my faith tradition and many others will enter into the season of Lent. For some, this is a time of giving up something; for others, Lent is an opportunity to take on something new. To those outside these traditions, I suspect it looks like a modern version of self-flagellation or public devotion over chocolate. All of us, I’m sure, have had those friends who have annoyed us with news of their 40-day piety fests. (I’m sure I’ve been that person a few times over the years.)
The story of the Transfiguration is particularly important to look at as we get ready for the discipline of Lent, whether we are practicing (my favorite verb describing what we do) or observing the custom of others. Three of Jesus’ disciples have just witnessed something amazing: a vision of their rabbi speaking to Moses and Elijah, pillars of the Jewish faith.
Impetuous Peter responds to this scene by suggesting he make three “booths.” This word is also translated as “dwelling” or “tabernacle.” Such structures served a number of purposes, one of which was a portable sanctuary. Certainly, Peter meant to honor his master by suggesting they erect a visible sign that Jesus is on the same spiritual plane as the two people held in the highest esteem by most devout Jews. But God the Father had other ideas.
God covers them all with a “bright cloud,” and then tells them, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to Him!” When the amazing event is over, it is Jesus they are left with, and Jesus only. What Moses and Elijah spoke still has power and value for God’s people. However, God says, Jesus is all.
This is not to diminish the importance of Elijah, who represents the prophets, and Moses, who personifies the Law. Both are part of the active speaking of God to His people. But we should not get lost in a kind of idol or self-worship that can come by hyperfocus on rules or messages, as if they were made and best exemplified in our outward appearance. Similarly, we just as we can easily get wrapped up in what others will see of us in Lent, and miss that we have nothing if we do not have Christ. Our Lord’s voice, over even the great ones, is what we must hear.
Holy Spirit, guide us, in this Lenten season and always, to remember that Jesus is not only our Savior but our Life. In the holy name of Jesus, Amen.
