The Devouring Flame

Transfiguration Sunday – February 15, 2926

Exodus 24:12-18
Psalm 2
2 Peter 1:16-21
Matthew 17:1-9

We find our lessons for today starting out with Moses ascending Mount Sinai in order to receive God’s gift of the law. This story is a bit suspect. If Moses was to receive the whole law as outlined in Deuteronomy and they were inscribed upon stone there would be no way that he could have carried them off the mountain. What we have here is a good example of oral tradition. The Law, as given in Deuteronomy, was a product of a much later time – just before the Babylonian captivity. Although that was not the beginning of the Law. As in any human community, the law developed over time. Our story tells us today that for the Israelites the Law was God’s gift and was important for their lives. Why else would Moses have entered into the devouring fire upon the mountain?

We read this text because of its relationship with our Gospel for today. There are several similarities between these stories: They both occur on a mountain with few witnesses, are shrouded in clouds, are frightening to those involved, and Moses is present. The transfiguration event is a turning point in Jesus’ life as he begins his journey to the cross. We read it today because we begin our Lenten journey to the cross this week. As we look forward to Jesus’ act of salvation we are reminded of his sacrifice for us and our unworthiness. Unlike the disciples who were with Jesus on the mountain, we already know the meaning of that event and know the walk since we have traveled it many times. Yet we are encouraged to take the Lenten walk once again because we so often forget the unmeasurable gift of salvation Jesus gave us. Remember the Lenten discipline, fasting, prayer, and alms. 

Remember that both of these events were dramatic and frightening to the participants. In fact that may describe any encounter with God. If you have spent any time reading the Old Testament you will have noticed that an encounter with God, or even one of God’s messengers, was frightening to those involved. So we take this Lenten journey with great caution knowing that we may encounter God along the way. In fact, we are encouraged to look for God in our journey to find out what God wants us to do. That is what the transfiguration was for Jesus and the disciples. Jesus was strengthened for his journey to the cross and the disciples were called to listen to Jesus. As you travel your own Lenten path be alert for God’s call and be ready to respond. For we do not know when we may encounter Jesus along the way. But there will be ample opportunities to share God’s love with others. There is a task for everyone in every place. That is where the discipline of Lent come into play. It will help you shut out the noise that calls you to worldly things and help you to see and share God’s love.