As we prepare our hearts for the season of Lent, it is no small wonder why Scripture draws our attention to the Transfiguration of Christ. The Gospel of Mark does indeed follow a brisk pace through the ministry and life of Jesus, but suddenly, near the midway point, the reader finds themselves thrust into a very climatic moment in the ninth chapter of the gospel (9:2-9). In a moment, time ruptures, and the disciples that Jesus took with him up on the mountain – Peter, James, and John – get a glimpse into the future as Jesus is transfigured right before their eyes. And there is the patriarch, Moses, and the prophet, Elijah, standing beside Jesus which provides a certain formula – God's covenant given in the law and God's promise known through prophecy finds fulfillment in Jesus.

What is of particular interest is Peter's response. He immediately moves into motion, set on constructing three dwellings. Peter is often known for his brash demeanor and quick responses, but here, there is a particular sensibility to his reaction to the transfiguration. He did what any devoted Hebrew who accepted Jesus as Messiah would do. Peter wanted to celebrate the feast of Tabernacles which remembered God's provision in the wilderness and anticipated the fulfillment of God's promises of deliverance in the Messiah. Peter's confession at the Transfiguration of Christ provides a wonderful example of confession in who Jesus is in our lives, which of course, also reveals to us the reality of what we are not.

Lent offers us the opportunity to focus on the implications of the transfigured Christ in our lives. Let us prepare our hearts through self-examination asking the Lord to reveal sin and brokenness in our lives in anticipation of the Messiah's revelation and deliverance.

Dustin+ and Guy+ talk about an upcoming opportunity for confession called the Sacrament of Reconciliation.