The Feast of the Transfiguration
February 15th marks the feast of the Transfiguration. This week, in the sermon series "When You See Jesus Clearly," Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes' sermon "When You See Jesus Clearly" will focus on Matthew 17:1-9.
On a mountaintop, three disciples witnessed Jesus blazing with divine glory. Peter wanted to build shelters and stay there, celebrating what God had done. But God interrupted: "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him." Because Jesus wasn't staying on the mountain—he was heading down toward the cross, calling his disciples to follow. This sermon explores what it means to see Jesus clearly: not as a hero to remember, but as a living Lord to follow—wherever he leads.
Notes from the Bench
Our prelude, Beautiful Savior (arr. James Kasen), sets the tone for Transfiguration Sunday. This cherished hymn reminds us that Christ is “fairer still” than all creation—sunshine, moonlight, and starlight. On the mountain of Transfiguration, the disciples caught a glimpse of that radiant glory as Jesus’ face shone like the sun. Kasen’s arrangement draws us into that same sense of wonder, gently preparing our hearts to see Christ’s beauty and light. The offertory, Franklin Ashdown’s Litany of Praise, bursts forth with joy and energy and weaves in the powerful hymn tune Lobe den Herren (Praise to the Lord, the Almighty). Its strong, familiar melody gives our praise a confident voice—almost as if the whole congregation is singing through the organ—lifting our gratitude to God.
Our choral anthem,Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, brings a heartfelt and hopeful voice to the morning. Rooted in the African American spiritual tradition, this beloved song speaks of comfort, freedom, and the promise that God is always near. Its image of being carried home reminds us that the shining Christ of the mountaintop is also the faithful Savior who walks with us through every valley. We end the service today with Paul Manz’s stirring setting ofGod of Grace and God of Glory,sendingus out with strength and assurance. Transfiguration doesn’t stay on the mountain—it moves into everyday life. Having glimpsed Christ’s light, we go forward ready to reflect that light in the world around us.
May the music this morning help clear our vision, brighten our faith, and renew our readiness to follow.
Worship Service will also include the hymns Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise, and Jesus, Joy of Our Desiring and I Stand Amazed in the Presence along with the Anthem, Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, sung by the Chancel Choir with soloists Meg Gardner and Lisa Rittenhouse.
Come join us at 9:00 a.m. as we Worship Together. We hope something in this music and message uplifts and strengthens your spirit. You are always welcome here.
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