Matthew 17:1-9 “After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus. Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them, “Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”
Mount Tabor is strategically located in lower Galilee and for most Christians it is a Holy mountain - "the mount of Transfiguration". This mountain has been a witness of battles from time of Joshua, second temple, byzantine period, and the crusades. Today there is a Franciscan church on the top
Western tradition locate this place as the mountain where Jesus’ transfiguration and encounter with Elijah and Moses took place. It was overwhelming to stand in the top of the mountain; in one hand by looking down the mountain and see all the valleys and towns, but in the other hand by looking into the sky and feel close the clouds and God’s presence.
After reading the scripture with four other clergy, we decided to set 5 rocks on the altar table as a reminder that is not about building churches or altars (as the disciples intended), but simply about recognizing the Lord and listening to Him.
Since the Son of Man has been raised, it is time for you to tell what you know!
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