Each year we re-read the story of Jesus’ life. We call this the calendar of the Church – or Liturgical – year. In this calendar, we are now at a point of transition. We have been looking at Jesus’ ministry. His teaching and his healing tell us who he is and what God wants to do on earth – for this Jesus is the son of God, is God! Today’s Gospel story confirms to Jesus and reveals to us that God’s way on earth, though it leads eventually to a glorious new reality, is through the cross.
Does life sometimes feel like nothing more than a bunch of events strung together, with little value, no purpose? Reading and rereading the story of Jesus will guide us to see God’s purpose for us, will help us hear God’s voice say of us, also, This is my son, my daughter, my beloved!
Old Testament Reading – 2 Kings 2:1-12: What a weird story! We need to remember that a prophet was one who spoke God’s word, especially against injustice. Elijah did this. We also need to remember that drawing a solid line between the natural and the supernatural may prevent us from appreciating God at work in the world. Reading this story today prepares us to learn a bit more of what Jesus experienced in our Gospel. The mantel of Elijah’s work would pass eventually to Jesus.
Psalm 50:1-6: The faith of ancient Israel observed three great, annual festivals. This poem or hymn may have been composed for one of these. We praise the God who is more powerful than all creation, yet who gathers us together, desiring a relationship (covenant) with us. “Righteousness” includes both the inner attitude and the outer deeds, which are part of this relationship.
Gospel – Mark 9:2-9: Previously, Jesus had asked his disciples who they – both others and the disciples themselves – thought Jesus to be. Perhaps in himself Jesus now needed affirmation of his role as the Son of God who must suffer. The key figures of the Bible Jesus read, Moses and Elijah, give this confirmation. The three disciples saw a glimpse of what would be eventually. In the meantime, however, they – and we – are to listen to him.
Key Verse: The heavens declare his righteousness [Psalm 50:6]
TSermon: Again, the voice!
