Up and Down

Please read Matthew 17:1-9.

     Climbing high up the mountain Jesus took his inner circle, Peter, James and John.  The three seemed to be his best friends or maybe they needed the most supervision…we know that Peter needed polishing and of course, James and John were called the Sons of Thunder for a reason.  To bring everyone would have been risky, and finally, scripture tells us, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them,"   Hence, two or three were necessary for this journey.  What is good for us to know through numerous historical records is that the other eight, obviously we know Judas’ story, remained faithful followers; sharing the gospel.  

     On the mountaintop, Jesus is transfigured.  This is a pivotal moment; His divine nature was revealed.  Even with some foreshadowing, the disciples were caught off guard.  Without warning or introduction, Moses and Elijah are present and conversing with Jesus.  Transfigured before their eyes, struck by his glory and power, they responded the only way they knew how. Peter said something hospitable but not warranted because we learnt that they were there for a moment, to offer a connection and then gone.

     Soon a voice from above boomed, “This is my Son with whom I am well pleased.”  These are the same words heard at Jesus’ baptism, but now there is more said, that booming voice advises them, “Listen to Him.”   Affirming his identity, confirming he is the Messiah, and instructing them to take heed--making sure there is a line of command that supersedes Mosaic law, God is direct…listen to Him as those representing the Old Covenant are gone.  

     God does not say, look…there is a spectacular sight occurring right in front of you, God says, “listen.”  Scripture tells us that Peter was not always a great listener, he questioned and denied Jesus, at times his response would be, yes but.  Is that how we respond – with doubt, denial, and yes buts?  We have heard a voice calling us to repent, to forgive, to love everyone even when it is hard, and to serve – putting others first, not seeking recognition.  Are we listening?  Are we intentional, receptive, and faithful?   Do we sit still long enough to hear the voice of God and meditate on the Word?  Do we respond to the nudging of God, which I believe is the work of the Spirit in our hearts?  

       We live with so much noise; listening is not always easy.  At times, God’s voice is small even a whisper.  We can miss God’s voice if not zeroed in on it. We cannot hear if we are constantly interfering, moving around, distracted and avoiding the conversation.  We need to learn to be comfortable with the silence.  We need to wait through the awkwardness.  In listening we practice patience and learn to trust God and his timing.  In the waiting, the veil parts, and the clouds lift, and we get glimpses of glory and breaths of love that fill us with hope and soothes our souls.   

      Jesus transfigured to help them strengthen their faith, prepare for the suffering, to allow the reality  of Jesus being fully human and fully God sink in, to offer a foreshadowing of Jesus’ victory over death.   

When they heard the voice of God, the three fell in fear.  Jesus immediately comforted them.  This act bridged the gap between God and humanity.  Elijah and Moses were gone, no longer necessary because Jesus is the supreme authority.  Jesus’ presence is all that is necessary.  He says, “Do not be afraid.”  A phrase we hear often in Scripture, a phrase that offers comfort.  Church, during times of uncertainty we have an open invitation assured of His nearness.  Let’s engage our faith to overcome fear. Life in Christ is not without troubles, but there is comfort in knowing that Jesus is all that is needed.       

     As that sinks in for them and us, we make our way down the mountain, we ask, “How does this apply to me today?”  Christ let his light shine and that mountaintop experience changed the disciples in profound ways.  Their eyes were opened, their faith deepened, and their relationship grew stronger.  Today we are reminded to keep our eyes wide open, anticipating God’s involvement in our lives when we are climbing up the mountain, standing tall on the mountaintop, or slipping as we go through the valley.  Each step we need to acknowledge the “God moments” …as we look and listen, as we reflect, then recount.  Life is challenging at times.  We need to see beyond our immediate troubles and focus on the hope of Jesus and the promise of tomorrow.  It is my prayer that you experience moments of transfiguration as the love of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are revealed to you as you join in Christ’s journey this Lenten season.  And all God’s people say, amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Kerry

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