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I have often wondered why one desires to reach a "summit" only to come down again. I had a friend whose desire was to reach the summit of various mountains. What was the mountain top experience all about?

In this week’s Gospel of the Transfiguration, we see that Jesus has invited his disciples Peter, James, and John to climb with him to the summit of the mountain. Having arrived at the top of the mountain, they would become participants in another type of summit of the highest level. Jesus would be transfigured before them.  Moses and Elijah, representing the fulfillment of the Law and the prophets appear and converse with Jesus.  As if that is not amazing enough, a voice from heaven says “This is my Beloved Son.  Listen to him.”

The disciples want to pitch three tents on that mountain and remain there and bask in the mountain top experience.  Yet, the ministry to which Jesus calls them has just begun.  As you journey this Lent from the desert to the mountain, may you hear the same words, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to Him.”  I pray that you discover what is yours to do.