Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one on earth could bleach them.

—Mark 9:2-3

We’re All Looking for Something

I’m writing this post on Groundhog Day, the day when we superstitiously try to discern how much longer winter will be by watching a small rodent leave his lair to produce a reaction that we will analyze anthropomorphically regarding whether he’s “seen his shadow” or not. Seriously. I know good, rational people who engage in this and who swear by the results. So there’s that.

But more important than this publicity-stunt-cum-holiday to me is the movie of the same name. In the film, Bill Murray is treated to the same day over and over as he tries to break free by doing things differently so that his life can move on. It’s considered one of the best screenplays ever written, and it’s studied in film classes to this day. I’ve enjoyed it. But I also get that mind-numbing vibe that we’ve caught during our pandemic time, that it’s very hard to tell the days apart. That extends to Sundays as well!

Ask the Pastor Anything on Sunday, February 14th

To that end, I’ve tried to get us more in the habit of celebrating our Christian holidays and festivals, to help us give shape to the year beyond just “school time versus vacation time.” In roughly two weeks, we’ll celebrate Transfiguration Sunday on Sunday, February 14th. In this story, the robes of Jesus become unearthly white, and he’s visited by Moses (representing the Law) and Elijah (representing the Prophets). The idea is that Jesus is the fulfillment of all. It’s not an ordinary day for the followers of Jesus.

This year, for Transfiguration Sunday, I’ll be doing something a little different: on February 14th, we’re having an “Ask the Pastor Anything” Sunday. Submit your questions now, to me me or through the church office. I’ll answer them in worship! Deep theological inquires? They’re welcome! Intel about the church and what we’re up to? Absolutely! Personal questions, aimed directly at me? Bring it on! Anything is fair game, but I’ll tell you now: the sooner you ask, especially for the really big, complicated questions, the sooner I can do my research to be ready.

Anyone is Welcome to Ask Anything

You may attach your name to your question, or you may ask anonymously. This is an inter-generational event, so I’d love questions from kids as well as adults. You can ask anything. Because while I like to think we’re in a great dialogue of faith together, the truth is, on most Sundays, it’s really a monologue, i.e. me talking to you. On Sunday February 14th, we changed the process completely, and I hope you’ll find it a fun variation as we prepare for our Lenten journey together discussing our covenants with God.

So ask me anything, no matter how big or trivial, and I look forward to enjoying this process with you on Transfiguration Sunday!