Jesus goes up the mountain with James and John, but it is a private act – he leaves the crowd behind for an intimate encounter. Many faiths, including Christianity and Judaism, see mountains as special. They are high – suggesting closeness to heaven – but also potentially dangerous.
Going up a mountain potentially involves both a
meeting with God and significant risk. As we settle into our Lenten journey, how do we approach God?
Transfiguration is also about perception. Jesus’ friends get to see him as he is – a person but also God. As I walk more closely with Jesus this Lent, perhaps in the company of my friends, am I open to knowing more about Jesus? Do I have preconceptions or prejudices? Do I try to keep Jesus safely packed within my own frame of
reference, or am I open to letting him reveal himself to me?
Beware, though! Coming to know Jesus more closely also means coming to know yourself – and possibly having to change as a result!
What are my preconceptions of Jesus? Am I open to letting them go so he can show himself to me?
Reflections by Fr Justin Glyn SJ
