Beloved Transfiguration

 Matthew 17:1-9, II Peter 1:16-21

This Sunday was Transfiguration Sunday celebrating when Jesus led some of his disciples up a mountain where he was transfigured along with Elijah and Moses who appeared. The disciples were impressed by this, and Peter spoke up wanting to save this moment forever. One thing to remember in this account which many neglect is the voice of God saying, “This is my son, beloved, with him I am well pleased, listen to him.” The disciples fall down in fear, but Jesus touches them and they are raised up to see no one but Jesus – the one they followed who has returned to his normal human appearance.

The impulsive Peter, wanting to save it all, writes about his experience on the holy mountain in II Peter 1. He tells of eye witnessing Christ’s majesty not going into detail about seeing Moses and Elijah, but he tells of the majestic voice of God saying, “This is my son, my beloved with whom I am well pleased.” He tells how now we have the prophetic message confirmed. He emphasizes that no prophecy ever came from human will, but by men and women moved by the Spirit spoke from God.

So, what are we to do now since what the prophets prophesied about the Messiah has come true? Peter says that we are to be a light shining in a dark place. The dark place is the whole world that has turned against Christ.

Christians are to ponder and keep the word of God until the day dawns. Many see this as the Second Coming of Christ. It goes on to say, “Until the morning star rises in your own hearts.” Some say that he means an illuminating transformation will take place in the heart of believers.

But can this happen now? Doesn’t Christ transform our hearts and our lives with the gospel message knowing we are beloved children of God whom Christ came to save?

May we experience this spiritual beloved transformation in our hearts today so we can be lights in the darkness of the world. Amen

 

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