Jesus took Peter, James, and John and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves. And he was transfigured before them… -Mark 9:2
The Transfiguration of Jesus (Mark 9:2-12) is an astonishing event to consider. It might seem so fantastical that it’s difficult to get your mind around what happened that day on Mt. Tabor. Or maybe you’ve heard this passage so many times that some of the wonder and awe have worn off, like a movie you’ve seen one too many times. When Scripture seems too difficult to understand or feels boring, that’s a great time to try encountering it in a new way.
Imaginative prayer is made for passages like this one. Try reading the passage once carefully and just trying to understand the description of the events. Then read it again and try to see it with your mind’s eye, imagining what Jesus looked like when his “clothes became dazzling white, such as no fuller on earth could bleach them” (Mark 9:3). What did Moses and Elijah look like standing and talking with Jesus? Listen as Peter enthusiastically asks to make them all tents. Then imagine a cloud envelops you while you listen to the voice of the Father: “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him” (Mark 9:7). Just sit with this and prayerfully contemplate the scene.
Now read the passage a third time, but this time instead of standing outside the scene imagining it, try to enter into the scene. Imagine you are there with Peter, James, and John as you witness the events one by one. What stands out to you as each line unfolds? Linger on the parts that seem important, whether they are words, an image, a feeling you get, or an idea. Ask God what He wishes to reveal to you about this. Is He calling you to clearer understanding, greater love of Him or others, a firmer commitment to Him, a conversion of heart? How is God speaking to you personally through this passage? What is your response to His call?
Jesus, I believe that Scripture is the living Word of God (Hebrews 4:12). Help me encounter You in a new way as I pray with Scripture.