Matthew 17:3-5 (MSG) His clothes were filled with light. Then they
realized that Moses and Elijah were also there in deep conversation with him.
Peter broke in, "Master, this is a great moment! What would you think if I
built three memorials here on the mountain—one for you, one for Moses, one for
Elijah?" While he was going on like this, babbling, a light-radiant cloud
enveloped them, and sounding from deep in the cloud a voice: "This is my
Son, marked by my love, focus of my delight. Listen to him."
Moments spent on a spiritual mountaintop are great, but that’s not
where Jesus did His best work. Peter’s enthusiasm was understandable. He had
just listened to Jesus predict horrific suffering which Peter insisted should
not happen. Jesus rebuked him as one allowing satan to control his desires
instead of following God’s plan. Atop this mountain in a moment of splendor,
everything in Peter wanted to stay. Who could blame him? However, Jesus knew
His job was not one of splendor, but sacrifice. As a Christian, there will be
times when life’s struggles seem too much to bear. There will be messy
relationships - even with
fellow-believers - that are difficult to maintain. There will be times of
suffering, mourning and sorrow. But, through it all, Jesus will remain
steadfast. Allow your worship, alone time with Jesus and times on a spiritual
mountaintop energize you for the real work at hand. The job of a Christ
follower is not always one of splendor, but one that sees the splendor through
the sacrifice.
Father, Help me to see where I need to be more of a follower of Christ
and less of one manipulated by satan. I know following is not easy, but give me
Your vision to learn to see splendor in sacrifice…and the courage to follow
through. I love You! Amen
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