I’m realizing more and more I need the rhythm of seasons. In Florida, we don’t really have them unless you count snowbird (tourist), pollen, lovebug, and hurricane. ⁠Then I remembered I have the rhythm of the Christian year.

The Christian year provides a transition between the season after Christmas (Epiphany) and the season before Easter (Lent). ⁠The scripture that marks this transition is the transfiguration of Jesus. You can read the story in Matthew 17:1–20; Mark 9:2–29; Luke 9:28–43; and 2 Peter 1:16–18.

There they were on top of a mountain with Jesus. Suddenly, he is transfigured before them. His clothes shine with a dazzling brightness no one has ever seen.

At this moment time shatters. Past, present, and future come together in holy communion. Jesus converses with Moses and Elijah, the lawgiver and the prophet, faithful ones who came before to prepare the way for God’s Messiah.

Peter is overwhelmed. As he starts making plans for them all to settle and stay on the mountaintop, a voice from above overshadows them, “This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!”

The glimpse was just that … a glimpse … and with that, it’s gone.

Jesus’ first invitation is “Come, Follow Me.” Come up the mountain. Come experience the presence and glory of God.

His second invitation is “Come Down the Mountain.” Come experience the presence and glory of God in the needs of others.

The glimpse was just that … a glimpse … and with that, it’s gone. Or is it?

A Glimpse of Glory
We bow in wonder and worship. You are Mystery. You are Holy. You are God.

You shine. You are glorious. You are Light, O Christ.
Fill us with light. Grant us a glimpse of your glory.

Save us, O God. Save us from the temptation to just stay on the mountain.

Save us, O God. Save us from the temptation to never engage with injustice and need.

Save us, O God. Save us from the temptation of trying to capture and control your power and glory.

Save us, O God.

You give us your glory and you give us your grace. Grace to follow you up the mountain of revealing and grace to follow you down the mountain, into the valley of revealing.

Help us to listen. Help us to follow. Strengthen and sustain us in every place, in every way, for your honor and glory. Amen.

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A Glimpse of Glory © 2020 Lisa Ann Moss Degrenia
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