I was introduced to the story of St. Seraphim of Sarov by Jim Murphy at a charismatic day of reflection, and his story has blessed me over and over again as I meditate on the mystery of the Transfiguration.
St. Seraphim is a Russian Saint often compared to the Western St. Francis of Assisi. His story is well chronicled in the book FLAME IN THE SNOW, and includes a story about his own transfiguration, along with his nephew Nicholas.
As I remember it, Seraphim was a holy hermit, having lived a saintly life and often consulted for spiritual wisdom. His nephew came to him asking questions about the Holy Spirit, and Seraphim explained to him painstakingly about the Third Person of the Trinity. Nicholas still didn’t understand, so Seraphim put his hands on the young man’s shoulders and told him to look into his eyes. It was winter, and cold; snow lay on the ground around them. And as Nicholas gazed at Seraphim, the Saint was literally transfigured before his eyes. They carried on a conversation in this state, Seraphim noting and explaining the fragrance, the warmth, the incredible Joy that was being experienced by the two of them. Nicholas recorded all this carefully – you can find the whole story on-line, or in the book.
When the experience ended, Seraphim proclaimed that the Lord had given them this incredible grace not just for themselves, but to share with the world. It’s a beautiful and amazing recounting of an actual experience of transfiguration! And it fills the reader with a deeper love for and appreciation of the Holy Spirit – what an incredible Gift of God!
St. Seraphim tells us that the whole purpose of the Christian life is to acquire the Holy Spirit, that we may live in the power of the Spirit and be the agent of grace and blessing that the Lord calls us to be. Another favorite quote of his that I found is “acquire interior peace and many will find salvation near you.” When we begin to live in Christ, Who is our Peace, we do begin to acquire that interior peace which the world is so longing for. It’s the peace that remains in the midst of any circumstance, as we grow in our trust in God’s Goodness and Provision. St. Seraphim, pray for us…
Lord God, thank You for the lives of the Saints that help us to understand Your mysteries and call us to holiness. May we get to know them as our allies and friends, and call on them often for the help we need to be the people you call us to be ~
Spiritual Sun Pennies 