Listen

While he was still speaking, look, a bright cloud overshadowed them. A voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son whom I dearly love. I am very pleased with him. Listen to him!” Hearing this, the disciples fell on their faces, filled with awe.

Matthew 17:5-6

Think

Peter saw Jesus talking with Moses and Elijah, two great heroes of the Jewish faith. He didn’t want that mountaintop experience to end! In his enthusiasm he volunteered to build tents so they could set up camp on the mountain and make the miracle last.

No sooner had Peter started making his building plans than a cloud — a bright cloud, a holy cloud — hovered over the six men on the mountain. The three disciples and the three teachers were covered by God’s presence. Then they were surrounded by God’s voice proclaiming that Jesus was God’s beloved and pleasing son, and instructing them to listen to Jesus.

It seems strange that God would make this big announcement to the Old Testament prophets and the New Testament disciples. But even those who already believe and those who already follow can be caught off-guard by God’s glory, amazed by the brightness in their eyes, the cloudy wisps touching their skin, the echoing voice in their ears. Even believers and followers fall to their knees in awe.

Nikki Finkelstein-Blair

Pray

God, like Peter, I wish I could live on spiritual mountaintops, where I can sense your presence as real as light and touch and voice. Teach me to listen humbly to your words and to Christ's call. I praise you for you are always surprising me! Amen.

Go

May God's glory shine into the exciting lights, upsetting darks, and boring grays of your every day.

May God’s continuing presence shine through you, bringing joy, comfort, and calm.

Through you, may others be inspired to praise God!