The Mountaintop

Today’s Gospel is from Mark 9:2-10 and depicts the Transfiguration of Jesus on a high mountain in front of his apostles Peter, James and John. I like to think that the phrase “mountaintop experience” comes from this passage of Scripture but there are many times God speaks life changing words to his people from a mountain. This experience isn’t necessarily a feeling of ecstasy but it is certainly an all-encompassing situation of total engagement and awe in the Lord’s power, often to the point where we are left speechless or perhaps incoherent.

When Scripture says Jesus’ clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone could bleach them, it reminds me of what happens to our sight when we are in a pitch-black room and someone snaps on the light. The light is so intense that we shut our eyes initially. I imagine Peter, James, and John wanting to see, but being so overcome with the Lord’s brightness, which is really his goodness and love, that they immediately squeezed their eyes shut until they were somewhat more accustomed to his radiance. Sound familiar?

In the spiritual life we often refer to mountaintop experiences as moments when we know God’s love for us so profoundly, we are changed by it. These situations are often precipitated by healing in our souls and by our forgiveness toward others, all of which are animated God’s grace working in us, with our consent. This is often done incrementally, with God lining up people to be his messengers and events to be His catalysts. While God is out of time, we are not, and he generally works within the framework he created for us.  

If you have not had a mountaintop experience do not be discouraged. Nine out the twelve apostles were not there with Peter, James, and John, yet eight of them became great evangelizers and healers. Keep praying, keep frequenting the Sacraments, keep reading Scripture, keep trusting God. As you continue climbing towards him, know that he sees you and he knows exactly where you are on his mountain.