July 6
Mark 9:2-8
When I first read through the verses today I thought, “Okay that was random.” But, of course, God had a purpose for this transfiguration exercise. First let’s look at Jesus’ clothes. It says, “and his clothes become dazzling white, far whiter than any earthly bleach could ever make them.” (vs. 3 NLT) Jesus was showing the disciples the amazing glory that was yet to come. We read a couple of days ago that Jesus was warning the disciples about the suffering that would soon take place. This was His way of showing them that the suffering would not be the end. Then He has a conversation with Moses and Elijah. Why them? Well, ‘Moses represents the law and Elijah the prophets, both of which find their fulfillment in Jesus Christ’. (Warren W. Wiersbe) Cool, huh? Then Peter starts rambling, because he’s scared and doesn’t know what to say. So God spoke to them from a cloud saying, “This is my son, whom I love. Listen to him!” (vs. 7b NIV) By saying this God was not only telling Peter to shut up, but He was confirming what Jesus had been trying to tell everyone all along. Jesus is the Son of God! Now, surely the disciples will have no more problems with faith, and will always shout the name of Jesus. Ha…just wait for the rooster story…..
Principle: God confirms Christ as part of the Godhead.
Application:
1. How do my actions and words show that I believe Jesus is God and not just a man?
2. Which ideas and goals should I let go and look to Jesus instead?
3. Will I listen more and say less today?
Sometimes I want to experience a blatant, vivid, I-actually-heard-God's-voice event like the one described here to help solidify my faith. But I would probably not know what to say, like Peter, and probably quickly slide back into my unbelieving ways, also like Peter. In fact, Jesus could probably point out that I have had such experiences, I just didn't recognize them. Please God, open my eyes and my heart.
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing afternoon they had! They are with Jesus, they see and recognize Elijah and Moses, and then God speaks directly to them. WOW. And then suddenly it was over. What a God moment they had. Question #3… Like Psalm 46:10 says: “Be still and know that I am God”(NIV). That’s what I need to do. I don’t want to miss my God moments.
ReplyDeleteGod is saying listen to my son I have given Him authority over many things. He does know what He is talking about. I pray that I can stop and listen today with an open heart and mind.
ReplyDeleteThe transfiguation of Jesus was the external revelation of Jesus' inner reality. For a moment they saw the glory of Jesus. The pictures you see of Jesus in oil paintings often depict him with a halo. Of course, if he would have had a halo, everyone would have known that he is divine. The incarnation (the Word became flesh) masked the true identity of Christ. Although he normally looked like an ordinary man, these three disciples got a glimpse of the fact that Jesus was anything but ordinary. Our task as followers of Jesus is to see Him as He really is and to help others do the same, to know Him, and to make Him known.
ReplyDeleteHave I come to casually?
Because it seems to me,
There's something I've neglected.
How does one approach a Deity with informality;
And still protect the Sacred?
'Cause you came and chose to wear the skin of all of us.
And it's easy to forget You left a throne.
And the line gets blurry all the time.
Between daily and Divine.
And it's hard to know the difference.
Oh, let me not forget to tremble.
Oh, let me not forget to tremble.
Face down on the ground do I dare,
To take the liberty to stare at You.
Oh, let me NOT...
Oh, let me NOT forget to tremble.
--Nicole Nordeman