Reflections of God

THIS WEEK’S GOSPEL: MATTHEW 17: 1-9 (THE MESSAGE)

Six days later, three of them saw that glory. Jesus took Peter and the brothers, James and John, and led them up a high mountain. His appearance changed from the inside out, right before their eyes. Sunlight poured from his face. His clothes were filled with light. Then they realized that Moses and Elijah were also there in deep conversation with him. Peter broke in, "Master, this is a great moment! What would you think if I built three memorials here on the mountain—one for you, one for Moses, one for Elijah?" While he was going on like this, babbling, a light-radiant cloud enveloped them, and sounding from deep in the cloud a voice: "This is my Son, marked by my love, focus of my delight. Listen to him."

When the disciples heard it, they fell flat on their faces, scared to death. But Jesus came over and touched them. "Don't be afraid." When they opened their eyes and looked around all they saw was Jesus, only Jesus. Coming down the mountain, Jesus swore them to secrecy. "Don't breathe a word of what you've seen. After the Son of Man is raised from the dead, you are free to talk."

When I read this story, I understand how Peter felt. I know the thrill and enthusiasm found in the midst of a momentous event. I understand wanting to freeze one moment in time and never wanting that moment to end. Given these mountaintop experiences, I confess that I don’t think to look for those exciting and life-giving moments in the mundane routines of life.

Life is not all high points and mountaintop experiences, so when do we notice God in our daily lives? Is it when we take time to chat with our neighbors or share a cup of tea with a visitor? Is it when we hold the door open for someone entering a store behind us or offer to walk someone across a busy street? How do we experience our Transcendent God in our lives?

Join us this Sunday, March 6 at 10:00am in Christ Church for a family service of worship in which we will notice reflections of God in our lives. Don’t forget to bring items to share with the Wellesley Food Pantry when we gather for Holy Communion.