The pattern of the Transfiguration, the juxtaposition of glory and darkness, is the central pattern of the Christian life. We may experience the glory of God, but those experiences do not excuse us from the darkest valleys. But, the same God who was is glorified on the mountain has chosen to be Immanuel, God-with-us, in the dazzling glory and the overwhelming darkness. Jesus comes to us, touches us, and says, “Arise! Do not be afraid.”