But that's only because we are not accustomed to it! In the transfiguration, in one brief shining moment, God shows in the glowing face of his son Jesus, what new life in his kingdom looks like. And while God's version is particularly intense, we are already used to signs of new life and hope causing things to shine. Ever heard the expression, “I knew she was pregnant because of her glow?” Ever heard the expression, “He was BEAMING with pride for his sons?” Ever seen some stranger you just KNEW was a Christian, even before you started talking with him? His new life and hope was probably visible to you subconsciously – in a sense, he was glowing with Jesus' presence.
That's why in our baptisms, we encourage each other to “let your light shine before others”. Don't be too quick to put on a veil! Don't be afraid to be different from those around you! We have the signs of the new life and hope we share in Jesus Christ, beaming from us naturally, coming through in our attitudes, our posture, the sparkle in our eyes, the gleam of our smile. We have the signs of new life and hope, shining in our good works, our generosity, our mutual concern for each other. We have the TRANSFIGURED Jesus living within us, and with God's intense new life, we can expect just about anything can happen!
Gracious God, we thank you for showing your glory to the disciples, and we thank you for showing your glory to us. Help us to see clearly the transfigurations that your new life and hope are accomplishing around us, and use us as a sign of your presence, in Jesus' name, amen.