The Transfiguration was such a spectacular moment that Peter wanted to stay, but Jesus knew that he needed to proceed to another mountain: Calvary. Josef Rodriguez, SJ, reflects on mountaintop experiences. Based on the readings for Sunday, February 28, 2021.
Have you ever experienced something that you just didn’t want to end?
Today we hear about the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor. This was a spectacular event that left Peter babbling, “It’s so great to be here! Let’s build three tents!!!” He was so enraptured by this glorious vision of Jesus, Moses and Elijah in dazzling light that he didn’t want to leave. He didn’t want to have to descend from this heightened experience.
Yet Jesus knew that the glory of Tabor could only make sense in light of his Resurrection. And that to get to the Resurrection, He’d have to endure the Passion leading to another mountaintop: Calvary.
Throughout life, we may experience Tabor: Moments of insight, love, and excitement that we wish were endless. But we should realize with Peter that life brings both Tabor and Calvary; and with them, an abundance of graces that lead us to the hope of being risen anew with Christ.