Luke 9:28-43 (Guide B)

The Context

Introduction

The Transfiguration stands out like, well, a bright light on a dark mountainside in the Gospel of Luke. The customary earthiness of the rest of the gospel falls away as heaven invades earth for a brief and glorious moment. Anything that stands out like this (especially in the place it falls in the gospel’s progression) should command our immediate and close attention.

The Place of the Transfiguration in Luke’s Gospel

Luke’s gospel constantly raises the question of Jesus’ identity. His miraculous birth narrative, his baptism, his triumph over temptation, his miracles and exorcisms, not to mention his willingness to be with the sick and sinners, all raise the…