Listen

Peter was still speaking when a cloud overshadowed them. As they entered the cloud, they were overcome with awe.

Then a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, my chosen one. Listen to him!” Even as the voice spoke, Jesus was found alone. They were speechless and at the time told no one what they had seen.

Luke 9:34-36

Think

You may know what it’s like to be “the wanted one” on a team, to be chosen first. You feel great and valued. Hoorah that others recognize your skills! The recognition sure is nice. Some of us, however, have more insecurities when it comes time to be chosen for a team. You rarely feel wanted and valued. You are not seen as the MVP (the Most Valuable Player).

In today’s passage, Jesus is the chosen one, the holy MVP. A voice from a cloud says, “This is my Son, my chosen one.” God the Creator identifies this rabbi and prophet as the chosen one through whom the world is reclaimed and loved.

The good news about this choice is this: Jesus the Christ claims us as chosen people. We are his MVPs, each and every one of us. Our collective job is to be the kind of team that makes room for everyone because, as you may have guessed, every single person is an MVP. It’s a paradox, and it’s the gospel truth.

Aram Bae

Pray

God of glory, thank you for Jesus the Christ through whom your glory is made real. It’s hard to believe that you choose to love me unconditionally. With that wonderment and awe, teach me to love like you. It sure isn’t easy, but it sure is good news. Amen.

Go

God the Creator, bless me and keep me.

God the Redeemer, smile upon me and be gracious to me.

God the Light, lead me in the path of wisdom and truth.