Radiance and Revelation: Encountering God's Transformative Love in Lent

​Lent is a season of reflection, a time to draw closer to God and examine our hearts. The scriptures, particularly Exodus 34:28-30 and Luke 9:28-36, offer profound insights into the transformative power of encountering God. This theme resonates deeply during this period of spiritual introspection. In Exodus, we witness Moses' extraordinary experience on Mount Sinai. Forty days and nights he spent in God's presence, fasting and receiving the Ten Commandments. His face radiated such glory upon his descent that the Israelites feared approaching him. This radiance wasn't a mere physical phenomenon but a tangible manifestation of God's presence, a reflection of the divine encounter. This story highlights the transformative power of communion with God. Moses, in his extended time with the Divine, was changed. His very being reflected the glory of the One he had encountered. This is a powerful reminder that spending time in God's presence can profoundly alter us, shaping us into vessels of His light.
 
Centuries later, on another mountain, we see a similar display of divine glory in Luke's Gospel. Jesus, accompanied by Peter, James, and John, is transfigured before them. His face shines, and his clothes become dazzling white. Moses and Elijah appear, discussing Jesus' "exodus," his impending sacrifice in Jerusalem. Here, the radiance is not merely a reflection of past communion but a glimpse of Jesus' divine nature, his true identity as the Son of God. The presence of Moses and Elijah links this event to the Old Testament covenant, demonstrating the continuity and fulfillment of God's plan. Peter's impulsive desire to build shelters for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah reveals a human tendency to try and capture and contain divine moments. But God's voice from the cloud, "This is my Son, my Chosen One. Listen to him," cuts through the confusion. The focus is clear: Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God, and we are called to listen to him.
 
During Lent, we are invited to seek our mountain-top experiences, moments of intimate communion with God. While we may not experience physical radiance, we can experience a heart transformation. This transformation comes through prayer, fasting, and immersing ourselves in God's Word. The fear the Israelites felt in Moses' presence and the terror that gripped the disciples in the cloud reminds us that encountering God is awe-inspiring and humbling. It reveals our own limitations and the vastness of God's glory. Yet, this encounter is not meant to frighten us away but to draw us closer. Lent is a time to reflect on the "exodus" Jesus was about to undertake, his sacrifice for our sins. As we contemplate his love, we are transformed. Just as Moses' face reflected God's glory, and Jesus' transfiguration revealed his divine nature, our lives can reflect the love of Christ when we spend time in His presence. Let us use this Lenten season to seek God's face, listen to His voice, and allow His transformative love to radiate through us. May we emerge from this season with hearts more attuned to His will, reflecting the light of Christ to a world in need of His grace.