BECOMING NEW

In three of the gospels we have the account of the Transfiguration of Jesus. Transfiguration means a complete change of form or appearance into a more beautiful or spiritual state.

The Matthew account says, “Jesus took Peter and the two brothers, James and John, and led them up a high mountain to be alone. As the men watched, Jesus’ appearance was transformed so that his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as light.” (vs. 1-2) In the seventh century, St Maximus the Confessor said that the senses of the apostles were transfigured to enable them to perceive the true glory of Christ. I think that is very accurate, otherwise it is just a mysterious event. The next verse notes, “Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus.” (v.3) This scene soon changes and a “a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice out of the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased; listen to Him!” (vs. 5-6)

I will never forget the first time many years ago when I heard the Lord say, ‘Moses and Elijah represent the Law and the Prophets and now we are to listen to the well-pleasing Son.’ It is Jesus that transfigures us all… he makes us new.

“I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life. So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’” Jesus