Christian Reflection and Prayer

Scripture:

Read Luke 9:28-36.
TEXT: And as He was praying, the appearance of
His face was altered, and His
clothing became dazzling white (Luke 9:29).

Eight days after Jesus predicted His death and
resurrection He takes three disciples up a mountain
where He is transfigured before them. Peter had
called him the Christ of God. Now he can look
upon the glorious face of God's eternal Son. Jesus
always had this glory, but from His conception until
that very moment it had been hidden behind His
humanity. Now for a brief moment it bursts forth on
the mountain.

This glorious sight might strengthen Peter, James
and John's false dream of Jesus reigning over a
glorious, earthly kingdom. But Moses and Elijah-two
great leaders from the Old Testament-stand
speaking with Jesus about His departure and how
He will complete His earthly mission through His
death, resurrection and ascension. Peter, James
and John awaken. Seeing Moses and Elijah
beginning to leave, Peter blurts out his desire to
build three shelters, so they can stay.

Suddenly, a bright cloud envelopes Jesus and the
three disciples. And from the cloud the voice of the
Father speaks out, "This is My Son, My Chosen
One; listen to Him!" Jesus has much to teach them-
and us-about our earthly life and how He will lay
down His life, so we might live forever with Him.

After the voice had spoken Jesus was again alone
with them, back to His normal, veiled appearance.
He then leads them down the mountain on the path
that will take Him to the cross.

THE PRAYER:

Almighty God, in Jesus' transfiguration we see His
full glory as Your mighty and eternal Son.
Strengthen my trust in Him as my Savior, so I may
see His glory face-to-face in heaven. I pray in
Jesus' Name. Amen.

(Lutheran Hour Ministries)