I first heard of Sufjan Stevens while in seminary twelve years ago. One of my classmates often played his songs.
His song titled Transfiguration was one of the first songs that really intrigued me. It’s a very simple song that first narrates the Scripture passage of the Transfiguration and then transforms into a meditative litany that attempts to transport the mind into the wonder and awe of the transfiguration of Christ. Have a listen by clicking above or here.
Though Sufjan is not an official “Christian singer,” many of his songs touch on Christian themes. It is evident that he believes in Jesus Christ. During an interview years ago he identified as an Anglo Catholic, which means he would belong to the high Church of England. The lyrics of his songs are rich with meaning, but not always direct, leaving room for interpretation.
Enjoy his song Transfiguration on this Feast of the Transfiguration!
Lyrics
When he took the three disciples to the mountainside to pray
His countenance was modified, his clothing was aflame
Two men appeared, Moses and Elijah came
They were at his side The prophecy, the legislation spoke
Of whenever he would die
Then there came a word of what he should accomplish on the day
Then Peter spoke, to make of them a tabernacle place
A cloud appeared in glory as an accolade
They fell on the ground
A voice arrived, the voice of God
The face of God covered in a cloud
What he said to them, the voice of God, the most beloved son
Consider what he says to you, consider what’s to come
The prophecy was put to death, was put to death
And so will the son
And keep your word, disguise the vision
Till the time has come
Lost in the cloud, a voice
Have no fear, we draw near
Lost in the cloud, a sign
Son of man, turn your ear
Lost in the cloud, a voice
Lamb of God, we draw near
Lost in the cloud, a sign
Son of man, son of God
Lost in the cloud, a voice
Have no fear, we draw near
Lost in the cloud, a sign
Son of man, turn your ear
Lost in the cloud, a voice
Lamb of God, we draw near
Lost in the cloud, a sign
Son of man, son of God
Lost in the cloud, a voice
Have no fear, we draw near
Lost in the cloud, a sign
Son of man, turn your ear
Lost in the cloud, a voice
Lamb of God, we draw near
Lost in the cloud, a sign
Son of man, son of God
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