And after six days Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And He was transfigured before them, and His clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. And Peter said to Jesus, "Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for You and one for Moses and one for Elijah." For he did not know what to say, for they were terrified. And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, "This is My beloved Son; listen to Him." And suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone with them but Jesus only. (Mark 9:2-8)
Peter was impressed. Elijah and Moses were there, talking to Jesus—two great heroes from the history of Israel! And like so many people do under pressure, Peter started babbling. "Let's make three tents, one for each of you!" What in the world did he mean?
It sure sounds like Peter wanted all three of them to stick around with the disciples up on that mountain. It also sounds like he was putting Moses and Elijah on the same level as Jesus. Poor Peter, you are so confused!
God put a stop to that nonsense right away. "This is My beloved Son," He says. "Listen to Him!" Don't babble. Don't worry about the distinguished visitors. Keep your eyes on Jesus! He is the center, the only One who matters.
Jesus is enough. In the end, it doesn't matter if we're up on an emotional mountaintop, or down in the valleys of suffering—whether we keep company with the great or get ignored with the poor. Jesus our Savior is with us.
THE PRAYER: Lord, thank You that You are mine and I am Yours. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* Do you get nervous around important people?
* Given who Jesus is, are you shy around Him? Why or why not?
* When has it helped you to focus on Jesus in your life?
Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.
Today's Bible Readings: Leviticus 17-18 Mark 9:1-29
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