Matthew 17:1-9 (NRSV)
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Chapter 17Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. Verse 2And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Verse 3Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Verse 4Then Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." Verse 5While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, "This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!" Verse 6When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. Verse 7But Jesus came and touched them, saying, "Get up and do not be afraid." Verse 8And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone. Verse 9As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, "Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead."
Devotion
Once again, we climb the inevitable mountain for an encounter with God: bright light, a vision of sorts, a cloud and a voice. God warned us when we signed on for this following to buckle up, put on our hard hats, and to hang on to Him tightly! I notice in Matthew's telling of this story that the voice speaks of love, yet the disciples are terrified. That strange combination of awe and devastation marks many of our true encounters with God in life.
Have you been up to a high place with God lately? Just a few will do, you know. Were you led there, beckoned there, or did you simply stumble upon such a path that led to engagement with the fullness of God? These intense and powerful experiences with the Almighty mark us forever. Changed, informed and impressed we move forward having, once again, seen the great light.
Prayer
We thank you, O God, for marking our journey with you with mountaintop moments. For the encouragement these invoke, the inspiration such encounters provide, and the promise of your ongoing love and investment in us, we offer you our very lives. Amen.