“About eight days after these sayings, Jesus took Peter, John, and James with him and went up on the mountain to pray. And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning.” (Luke 9:28-29, NRSVue)
The Transfiguration is one of the most profound moments in Jesus’ earthly ministry, as Jesus and three of his disciples spent time with God on the mountain. Luke’s account tells us that “as they were praying,” Jesus’ appearance was transformed. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzlingly bright. This miraculous moment revealed Christ’s divine glory to Peter, James, and John while providing a glimpse of what awaits us in God’s kingdom.
As we gather this Sunday to explore this holy mystery, we’re also preparing our hearts for the sacred season of Lent, which begins with our Ash Wednesday service on March 5th. We invite you to join us for dinner at 5:00 p.m. and our Service of the Ashes at 6:00 p.m.
The Journey into Lent
Ash Wednesday marks our entry into this season of spiritual renewal through three fundamental practices:
Prayer: Just as the Transfiguration occurred during prayer, God calls us to deepen our relationship with him through intentional spiritual disciplines. Throughout Lent, set aside time daily to practice solitude or prayerful meditation to connect more deeply with God.
Fasting: We create space for God’s transforming presence by giving up certain comforts or habits. Choose at least one day a week during Lent to “deny” yourself something that will remind you to redirect your awareness and affection toward God.
Almsgiving: We extend Christ’s love to others through charity and generosity. During Lent’s forty days, choose one of our church’s missions to pray for daily. Consider making a financial contribution to that ministry or volunteering at least weekly.
The Significance of Ashes
We’re reminded of our mortality and God’s grace when we receive the ashes on our foreheads. The minister’s words, “Repent and believe the Gospel,” call us to humble reflection on our sinfulness and a renewed commitment to our faith journey. In receiving the ashes, we affirm our need for God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit to lead us down a new path.
Our Lenten Invitation
Like Peter, James, and John on the mountain, God invites us to witness his ability to change lives—not just Jesus’ transformation, but our own. Through prayer, fasting, and acts of love, we open ourselves to God’s life-changing presence in our lives. As we journey from Transfiguration Sunday through the forty days of Lent, let’s embrace this opportunity for spiritual growth and renewal, knowing that the same God who revealed divine glory on the Mount of Transfiguration walks with us through our journey toward transformation.
Join us this Sunday as we contemplate Christ’s glory and then gather again on Ash Wednesday as we begin our Lenten pilgrimage together—and don’t forget to invite your friends!
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