This week we approach Transfiguration Sunday, the final Sunday before the beginning of Lent. To create some reflective space as the season of Lent approaches, we will be engaging in a practice called “Visio Divina.” Simply put, Visio Divina is praying with art and visual imagery. As one author has put it:
“Visio Divina is translated as ‘divine seeing.’ It is related to the prayer form Lectio Divina (divine reading), but instead of Scripture, this form of prayer uses visual elements to help set your mind on prayer. It allows God to speak into your heart through the image.” (read more here)
For each of this week’s readings you are invited to spend some time prayerfully meditating on a work of art related to that Scripture. Perhaps listen to the song as you meditate, or you may wish to do so in silence. As you gaze at the artwork, pay attention to the movement of your soul. Ask yourself these questions: What does it stir in you? What thoughts, questions, or emotions are stirred? What do you find yourself thinking about? Then spend some time praying over what has stirred in you as a result of the song and the artwork.
Exodus 34:29-35 (NRSV)
Moses came down from Mount Sinai. As he came down from the mountain with the two tablets of the covenant in his hand, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God.
When Aaron and all the Israelites saw Moses, the skin of his face was shining, and they were afraid to come near him.
But Moses called to them; and Aaron and all the leaders of the congregation returned to him, and Moses spoke with them.
Afterward all the Israelites came near, and he gave them in commandment all that the LORD had spoken with him on Mount Sinai.
When Moses had finished speaking with them, he put a veil on his face; but whenever Moses went in before the LORD to speak with him, he would take the veil off, until he came out; and when he came out, and told the Israelites what he had been commanded, the Israelites would see the face of Moses, that the skin of his face was shining; and Moses would put the veil on his face again, until he went in to speak with him.
Song: “A Face That Shone” by Michael Card
Lyrics: Click here
Image for reflection: Moses Veiled by Ted Larson
