This month we celebrate Jesus’ transfiguration, when Jesus took Peter, John and James with Him up a mountain to pray (Luke 9:28-36). Jesus was transfigured alongside Moses and Elijah: ‘As He was praying, the appearance of His face changed, and His clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning.’ (29).
Jesus’ Transfiguration: Watch!
The disciples’ eyes were opened, as Jesus’ hidden divinity was revealed. The presence of Moses and Elijah confirmed Him as God’s promised Messiah, who fulfilled God’s plan and purposes. By foreshadowing the cross, resurrection and ascension, this event powerfully calls us to entrust our lives into Jesus’ hands to experience His presence and power.
The Father’s Word: Listen!
There came a voice from the cloud covering them: ‘This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to Him.’ (35). God affirmed His love and call on Jesus, as His beloved and chosen Son. This is the second time God spoke audibly about Jesus (cf Luke 3:22), but on this occasion He was speaking for the benefit of the disciples. Do we hear God speaking these same words to us? We listen to what Jesus says to us, knowing that like Him we are deeply loved and accepted by God.
The Disciples Response: Learn!
‘The disciples kept this to themselves and did not tell anyone at that time what they had seen’ (36). They were impacted by this experience and needed time to reflect on what they had seen and heard about Jesus. Eight days before they were asked by Jesus: ‘Who do you say I am?’ (Luke 9:20). In the transfiguration their understanding of Jesus was being transformed. As we reflect on Jesus’ ministry, to encounter the real Jesus, we are also transformed.
‘No one who meets Jesus ever stays the same.’ (Philip Yancey)