Epiphany

February 20, 2020

Scripture Reading: 2 Peter 1:16-21

For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received honor and glory from God the Father when that voice was conveyed to him by the Majestic Glory, saying, ‘This is my Son, my Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.’ We ourselves heard this voice come from heaven, while we were with him on the holy mountain. –2 Peter 1:16-18

Several years ago, I came home from work feeling very sorry for myself. I do not remember why. At the time, I was reading a book that suggested a meditation based on putting yourself in the role of one of the people Jesus encountered as described in the gospels. I thought I would try the meditation form. I quieted and centered myself and began taking deep breaths. The first character that popped into my mind was the women who washed Jesus’ feet with her tears and hair. In my mind I became that women continuing to stew in my self-pity. I suddenly imagined Jesus tapping me on the shoulder and saying, “let’s dance.” He took my hand guided me to my feet and we waltzed off into the heavens. I was suddenly back in my living room in my rocking chair, laughing at myself and my morose attitude.

I do not think of myself as a mystic. I do consider that I am an optimistic pragmatist which I suppose could be a contradiction in terms, but it is apt. I also cannot fathom what impact the direct contact the disciples had with Jesus. It was enough for a few diverse folks to change the world. We continue in that tradition today and through the mystery of the Spirit continue to be whisked off our feet when we need to be reminded of who it is, we serve just as Peter remembered that moment on the mountain. I do agree with Shakespeare.

There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio,
Than are dreamt of in your philosophy. —Hamlet

Prayer: Lord, protect us from ourselves when we let the world become to much with us. Amen.

All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights are reserved.