“There are three Powers, three unique Forces upon earth, capable of conquering forever by charming the conscience of these weak rebels ― men ― for their own good; and these Forces are: Miracle, Mystery and Authority.”
Fyodor Dostoevsky, “The Grand Inquisitor“
Wandering through that terrible and lonely desert wilderness, the Lamb of God was visited by a shambling Goat, a wicked beast who walked upright like a crooked man. Gesturing towards a pile of stones, the Goat challenged the Lamb:
“If you are begotten of the Almighty, command these stones to become loaves of bread!”
“A simple task, for with just a word, I could command these rocks to worship me.” the Lamb boasted as he turned the stones into delicious loaves of bread.
And all the birds of the air cried out in unison,
“Glory and Power to the Lamb, for with signs and wonders he secures our daily bread!”
Then the Goat led the Lamb to the top of a ruined tower, who’s half-finished skeleton almost appeared to pierce the heavens. And the Goat brayed above the roaring wind:
“Below you stand all the Empires of the world. Kneel before me, and I will allow your words to resonate throughout the four corners of the earth!”
Recognizing an opportunity to establish his Kingdom, the Lamb bowed before the Goat without hesitation. And all the Kings of the Earth cried out,
“Who else is like the Lamb? His reign will be eternal!”
Garbed now in a crown and a crimson robe, the Lamb was led out of the wilderness, approaching a city built around a towering cathedral – a monstrosity of stained glass, timber and obsidian. Ascending to the highest apex of the structure, the pair stood in the shadow of a golden crucifix which towered high above the city.
Standing in amazement, the Lamb paused, taking in the view. However, the feeling quickly faded as the Goat sauntered to his side, leering with a contorted grin and clicking its hooves together like a pair of shears. As the Goat leaned in it whispered:
“If you really hold the power of life over death, then cast yourself from this precipice so that you will be raised again in glory!”
And before the Lamb could reply, the Goat lurched at the Lamb, grabbing him by the throat and pulling the two of them into the abyss.
As the masses gathered in the aftermath, wailing and covering themselves in the blood, wool, viscera and fur – the heavens opened up, revealing the secrets of the cosmos in all of their beauty and horror. And the throbbing masses cried out in unison:
“All Glory and Power to the Lamb, who has washed us in his blood and sanctified our suffering!”
transfigurations 