The Sunday Lectionary
with Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Sunday, February 11, 2024—Transfiguration Sunday
Radiant Transitions:
with Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Sunday, February 11, 2024—Transfiguration Sunday
Radiant Transitions:
Divine Glory and Earthly Journeys
2 Kings 2:1-12; Psalm 50:1-6; 2 Corinthians 4:3-6; Mark 9:2-9
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Transfiguration)
2 Kings 2:1-12; Psalm 50:1-6; 2 Corinthians 4:3-6; Mark 9:2-9
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Transfiguration)
What Do You See
We live in a time of great division. Lines have been drawn regarding race and gender. Those with less are looked down on by those with more. Many assume the worst about a person based on the color of their skin or the history of their heritage. But, God’s Word is clear about these divisions. It’s clear about discrimination and racism. Salvation through Jesus is available for people of every nation, tribe and tongue. Each one of us, no matter our history or heritage has been created in His image. This is what God sees…the question is; what do you see?
Introduction
In this rich tapestry of biblical narratives, we explore the themes of divine glory and the transformative journeys of the faithful. 2 Kings 2:1-12 recounts the extraordinary ascension of Elijah into heaven, illustrating the seamless transition between earthly ministry and heavenly reward. Psalm 50:1-6 summons the heavens and the earth to witness God's judgment and glory, reminding us of the divine sovereignty over all creation. 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 speaks of the light of the gospel shining in our hearts, revealing the knowledge of God's glory in the face of Jesus Christ. Finally, Mark 9:2-9 vividly describes the Transfiguration of Jesus, where His divine nature is brilliantly revealed to His closest disciples. Together, these passages invite us to behold the majesty of God, to embrace our spiritual journey, and to reflect His radiant light in our lives.
Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading
From the Historical Books
2 Kings 2:1-12
Ascension and Transition: Elijah's Journey to Heaven
First Reading
From the Historical Books
2 Kings 2:1-12
Ascension and Transition: Elijah's Journey to Heaven
2 Kings 2:1-12 unfolds one of the Bible's most awe-inspiring narratives, showcasing the remarkable transition of prophetic leadership from Elijah to Elisha. This passage not only illustrates the miraculous ascent of Elijah into heaven but also signifies the continuity and strength of God's divine message through the consecration of Elisha. As we delve into these verses, we witness a profound display of faith, the power of God's promise, and the enduring nature of spiritual mentorship.2 1 When the LORD was about to take Elijah up to heaven in a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal. 2 Elijah said to Elisha, “Stay here; the LORD has sent me to Bethel.”
But Elisha said, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So they went down to Bethel.
3 The company of the prophets at Bethel came out to Elisha and asked, “Do you know that the LORD is going to take your master from you today?”
“Yes, I know,” Elisha replied, “so be quiet.”
4 Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here, Elisha; the LORD has sent me to Jericho.”
And he replied, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So they went to Jericho.
5 The company of the prophets at Jericho went up to Elisha and asked him, “Do you know that the LORD is going to take your master from you today?”
“Yes, I know,” he replied, “so be quiet.”
6 Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here; the LORD has sent me to the Jordan.”
And he replied, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So the two of them walked on.
7 Fifty men from the company of the prophets went and stood at a distance, facing the place where Elijah and Elisha had stopped at the Jordan. 8 Elijah took his cloak, rolled it up and struck the water with it. The water divided to the right and to the left, and the two of them crossed over on dry ground.
9 When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?”
“Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha replied.
10 “You have asked a difficult thing,” Elijah said, “yet if you see me when I am taken from you, it will be yours—otherwise, it will not.”
11 As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind. 12 Elisha saw this and cried out, “My father! My father! The chariots and horsemen of Israel!” And Elisha saw him no more. Then he took hold of his garment and tore it in two.
Expository Commentary
Verses 1-2: As the Lord prepares to take Elijah up to heaven in a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha travel from Gilgal. Despite Elijah's suggestion for Elisha to stay behind, Elisha insists on accompanying him, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and a deep desire to witness the power of God. This sets the stage for a journey not just of physical travel but of spiritual passage as well.
Verses 3-5: The sons of the prophets at Bethel and Jericho, aware of the impending ascension, question Elisha. Their repeated interactions underscore the significance of this event within the prophetic community, highlighting a collective anticipation and respect for God's plan. Elisha's response to them indicates his commitment to follow Elijah until the very end.
Verse 6: Once again, Elijah tests Elisha's resolve by urging him to stay behind while he travels to the Jordan. Elisha's refusal to leave Elijah's side reflects his deep spiritual commitment and the strong bond between them, illustrating the depth of mentor-disciple relationships.
Verses 7-8: Fifty men from the company of prophets watch from a distance as Elijah and Elisha stop at the Jordan. Elijah rolls up his cloak, strikes the water, and parts it, allowing them to cross on dry ground. This miraculous act echoes the Red Sea crossing and symbolizes Elijah's authoritative role as God's prophet. It also prefigures the extraordinary events to come.
Verses 9-10: As they cross, Elijah asks Elisha what he can do for him before he is taken away. Elisha requests a double portion of Elijah's spirit, seeking the strength and wisdom needed to continue Elijah's work. Elijah acknowledges the difficulty of this request but promises its fulfillment if Elisha witnesses his ascension, tying the transfer of prophetic authority to the perception of divine events.
Verse 11: As they walk and talk, a chariot of fire with horses of fire appears and separates the two, and Elijah ascends to heaven in a whirlwind. This extraordinary vision represents God's direct intervention and the glorious nature of His power, marking a significant transition in prophetic leadership.
Verse 12: Elisha sees this and cries out, acknowledging Elijah's vital role as a spiritual father and the chariots of Israel and its horsemen as symbols of divine protection and strength. Elisha's reaction signifies the profound impact of the moment, both personally and for the broader community of faith.
In conclusion, 2 Kings 2:1-12 is a powerful narrative of divine transition and spiritual inheritance. It emphasizes the continuity of God's work through his chosen prophets and the unbreakable chain of spiritual mentorship. As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded of the power of faithful witness, the importance of spiritual continuity, and the awe-inspiring nature of God's plan.
A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 50:1-6
The Mighty One Calls: A Psalm of Divine Judgment and Grace
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 50:1-6
The Mighty One Calls: A Psalm of Divine Judgment and Grace
Psalm 50:1-6 is a powerful passage where God Himself speaks, calling the heavens and earth as witnesses to His judgment. It serves as a divine summons, revealing God's omnipotence and righteousness. The psalmist depicts the Lord as the Mighty One, who shines forth from Zion, perfect in beauty. God does not remain silent; He comes with fire and storm, manifesting His glory and majesty. This section of the psalm emphasizes that God is not only the judge of all but also the one who desires righteousness from His people. It sets the stage for understanding God's expectations and the importance of a sincere relationship with Him, rather than mere ritualistic worship.1 The Mighty One, God, the LORD,
speaks and summons the earth *
From the rising of the sun to where it sets.
2 From Zion, perfect in beauty, *
God shines forth.
3 Our God comes
and will not be silent; *
A fire devours before him,
and around him a tempest rages.
4 He summons the heavens above, *
And the earth, that he may judge his people:
5 “Gather to me this consecrated people, *
Who made a covenant with me by sacrifice.”
6 And the heavens proclaim his righteousness, *
For he is a God of justice.
O Almighty God, who shines forth in majesty from Zion, we come before You acknowledging Your supreme greatness. You, the Lord God, speak and summon the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting. Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, You shine brilliantly.
We recognize, O Lord, that You do not keep silent; a fire devours before You, and around You, a tempest rages fiercely. You call to the heavens above and to the earth, that You may judge Your people: "Gather to me this consecrated assembly, who made a covenant with me by sacrifice." The heavens proclaim Your righteousness, for You are a God who is Judge.
Lord, as Your people, we stand in awe of Your righteousness and justice. Let our hearts be attuned to Your call, our lives a testament to Your glory, and our spirits receptive to Your righteous judgment. In Your mercy, gather us into Your presence, where we can witness Your majesty and be transformed by Your holy fire. Amen.
In the profound passage of 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, the Apostle Paul addresses the concept of spiritual enlightenment and the transformative power of the Gospel. This scripture delves into the reasons why some remain blind to the truth of Christ and how the divine light of God's glory, revealed through Jesus, penetrates the darkness, offering hope and clarity. The passage is a testament to the transformative power of belief and the role of divine intervention in illuminating the human heart.4 3 And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5 For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.
Expository Commentary
Verse 3: Paul acknowledges that the Gospel message is not apparent or accepted by everyone. The 'veil' symbolizes a barrier to understanding or accepting the truth. This lack of recognition is particularly pertinent to those who are 'perishing,' indicating individuals who are spiritually lost or in a state of disbelief.
Verse 4: Paul further explains the nature of the spiritual blindness affecting non-believers. He attributes this blindness to 'the god of this age,' often interpreted as Satan or the pervasive spirit of evil and disbelief in the world. This force actively prevents people from perceiving the 'light of the gospel,' which reveals the glory and truth of Christ as the image of God.
Verse 5: Paul clarifies the focus and intent of his message. He and his fellow apostles do not preach to promote themselves but to exalt Jesus Christ as Lord. Their role is that of servants, dedicated to spreading the message for the sake of Jesus and the salvation of others.
Verse 6: This verse draws a parallel between the creation narrative and the enlightening work of God in the hearts of believers. Just as God commanded light to shine out of darkness at creation, He also illuminates the hearts of believers, allowing them to perceive the glory of God. This divine light provides knowledge and understanding of God's glory as revealed in Jesus Christ, dispelling the darkness of ignorance and unbelief.
In colusion, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 is a profound passage that articulates the struggle between spiritual blindness and divine enlightenment. It underscores the power of the Gospel to penetrate the darkest veils of disbelief, revealing the transformative glory of God through Jesus Christ. Paul's message is one of hope and perseverance, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in sharing the light of Christ with a world shrouded in darkness.
In Mark 9:2-9, we encounter one of the most profound and mysterious events in the New Testament: the Transfiguration of Jesus. This passage describes a moment of divine revelation and transformation, where Jesus's earthly form is momentarily altered to reveal his heavenly glory. As we delve into these verses, we explore the significance of this event for Jesus's disciples and for us today, uncovering the layers of meaning and the insights they offer into the nature of Jesus and his mission.9 2 After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. 3 His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them. 4 And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses, who were talking with Jesus.
5 Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 6 (He did not know what to say, they were so frightened.)
7 Then a cloud appeared and covered them, and a voice came from the cloud: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!”
8 Suddenly, when they looked around, they no longer saw anyone with them except Jesus.
9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus gave them orders not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead.
Expository Commentary
Verses 2-3: A Vision of Radiance
- Verse 2: Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain, where they are isolated from the others. This setting suggests a place apart from the ordinary, a space where heaven and earth might meet.
Verses 4-5: Prophetic Confirmation
- Verse 3: Jesus's appearance transforms dramatically; his clothes become dazzling white, beyond what any earthly process could achieve. This radiant transformation serves as a visual testament to his divine nature and the glory of the heavenly realm.
- Verse 4: Elijah and Moses appear alongside Jesus, representing the Law and the Prophets, the foundations of Jewish faith. Their presence affirms Jesus's role in fulfilling God's plan as foretold in the Hebrew Scriptures.
Verses 6-7: Divine Affirmation
- Verse 5: Peter, awestruck and bewildered, offers to build three shelters for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. This impulsive suggestion reflects his misunderstanding of the event's significance and his desire to prolong the extraordinary moment.
- Verse 6: Peter's reaction is driven by fear and confusion, a natural human response to the supernatural. His suggestion to build shelters is indicative of his desire to respond in some way to what he does not fully understand.
Verses 8-9: The Return to Reality
- Verse 7: A cloud envelops them, and a voice from the cloud proclaims Jesus as God's beloved Son, commanding the disciples to listen to him. This divine affirmation echoes the voice at Jesus's baptism and emphasizes his unique relationship with God and his authority.
- Verse 8: Suddenly, everything returns to normal, and they see no one except Jesus. This abrupt return to reality serves as a transition back from the divine revelation to their earthly mission.
In conclusion, Mark 9:2-9 invites us to witness the Transfiguration as a pivotal moment in the Gospel narrative. It reveals Jesus's divine glory, foreshadows his death and resurrection, and reaffirms his role as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. For the disciples and for us, it serves as a profound revelation of who Jesus is and a promise of the transformation that awaits all who follow him. As we reflect on this passage, we are called to listen to Jesus, to understand his mission, and to prepare ourselves for the journey from the mountain of transfiguration to the glory of the Resurrection.
- Verse 9: Jesus instructs them not to tell anyone what they have seen until after his resurrection. This command highlights the importance of understanding the Transfiguration in the context of the entire Paschal Mystery.
Here end the Readings
Change The World
Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets].
The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Commentaries are by Kenny Sallee, ThM, aided by ChatGPT.
The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year B. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we will be in Year C. The year which ended at Advent 2023 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
