2nd Sunday in Lent
(Cycle "C" - March 7, 2004)

Q. 257:   I have heard both St. Mark's and St. Luke's story of the Transfiguration described as a "sandwich story."   What does that mean?

A. 257:   Being a "sandwich story" refers to the "placement" of the story by the authors within the context of the information they are trying to convey.   In this case, both evangelists "sandwich" the story between two clear and somber predictions of future suffering for the Messiah.

The true witness story of the Transfiguration is intended to reveal the hidden identity of Jesus.   Hearers or readers of the story are reminded by a voice from the "cloud" that they are to "listen" to this beloved Son of the Father.   Together with the description of the stainless, "dazzling white" clothes of Jesus, there is no mistaking the fact that the divine identity of Jesus is being revealed.

Yes, Jesus is the Messiah; yet he is not the temporal ruler expected by the leaders and people, and maybe even the disciples.   They expect another like King David to save them and establish a new kingdom, expelling the Romans from their territory.   Jesus knows that his apostles are not yet ready to understand the reality that his kingdom is not of this world.   Until they are ready - which will not occur until after the resurrection - Jesus reveals only pieces of the puzzle of who he really is.   The entire Old Testament story of salvation history is simply a preparation for the reality of the coming of the Messiah, and the new covenant that will be established through the shedding of his own blood.

Know Your Catechism!   The placement of the event on a "mountain," with an enveloping "cloud" and a heavenly voice, and dazzling white garments, all speak of a self-revelation of God (CCC #554).   But these wondrous events are themselves "surrounded" by predictions of suffering for this Messiah of the New Covenant (CCC #555).   The promise of baptism is that we, too, will share in the transfigured glory of Christ (CCC #556).   We need to ask ourselves this question: do I keep my white baptismal garment unstained by my daily thoughts, words and deeds?   If not, what must I do about that during this Lent?

Deacon Paul Rooney
Mary Our Queen Parish, Omaha

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