Daily Gospel Reflection for March 16, 2014

Today's Gospel: Matthew 17:1-9

Distractible. If St. Thomas gets called “doubting Thomas”, St. Peter ought to be called “distractible Peter”. Hey, look! It’s Moses! Elijah! Lord, let’s make some tents!

Yep, that’s my spiritual life too. I have a big epiphany, and decide to rearrange the furniture. Is it time to make a serious change in my life? Let’s buy a piece of inspiring art for the mantle.

And God clears through the noise. These good things – these great things – are not what it is about. Moses, Elijah – the very heroes of the faith, the ones on whom the nation of Israel is built and sustained? It’s great that you honor them – but don’t let that honor distract you. It’s time to drop the curtain on that scene, because here’s my beloved Son. This is the one. This is what it’s about.

Do not be afraid. I should be afraid, if my eyes are someplace other than Jesus. If I’m not getting the right message when God sends his messengers, I’m setting myself up for the holy whapping. I’m on the holy mountain, but I don’t know what to do with myself. As I climb, I can expect these small-t transfigurations, moments I realize I had it all wrong. Well, not all wrong; but I was a bit off course.

The Transfiguration is a historical reality, not a metaphor. The skies open up, and God Almighty confirms that our Lord is indeed the very Son of God. Not a mere prophet. Not a mere giver of the law.

A voice from Heaven. There is a Voice in Heaven, and it belongs to Person. A Person who loves – who is Love. And who will whap us back on track when we need it.

Ponder:

What scares you? If the skies were to open up, and God Himself come to you, Person to person, what is it you are afraid you would see? Afraid you would hear?

Pray:

Lord, you know I love you. And I know you love me. But I want to know you better, and I want to love you better. It terrifies me, but today I am asking you to shed your light on my life, even though it means I will see something I don’t feel ready to see. Please remind me not to be afraid when I see it. Amen.

Copyright 2014 Jennifer Fitz