This Sunday is the last Sunday of Epiphany, which means we get to read about the Transfiguration. Whenever I read this passage, I am struck by how much it is a metaphor for those times of deep spiritual experience in our lives. Just look at Peter —
He’s weighed down with sleep at first but struggles to stay awake. If that isn’t a common human state, then I don’t know what is! Still, from the perspective of Peter (and James and John), they are up on the mountain because of how committed they are to their friend — not because they know what will happen next. Sometimes, staying awake — simply staying awake — can show our commitment.
Then, when everything happens, James and John are struck speechless — like most of us would be.
But.Not.Peter.
He blurts out what we’re all thinking at such genuine moments of depth and reality: “Let’s set up camp!” The moment is so great that he wants to just stay there forever…but moments aren’t like that. They are fleeting and all the sweeter for their transience.
Usually, that’s as far as we go with Peter in this passage, but let’s stay with him this time. What’s next?
Fear. Is he afraid because he realizes the moment is over? Is he afraid of the unknown that’s beyond him, as represented by the cloud? Is he afraid because he grasps some sliver of the truth that Jesus – his best friend – is about to suffer horribly and die an excruciating death?
Put yourself in his shoes. How would you feel? Why?
Then, note that little tag ending. They “kept silent” and “told no one,” even Peter. That’s often the way with genuine spiritual experience. We don’t know how to talk about it. When we do speak, we either put our foot in our mouths (a la Peter) or our words just seem so…small.
So, when you hear about the Transfiguration this Sunday, think about Peter. Imagine yourself in his place.
Just imagine…