In this story, it’s as though God gave the three disciples to whom Jesus was closest a “peek behind the curtain.” Usually, Jesus looked like just another person—but on this occasion, “his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as light.” Luke 9:31 added that Moses and Elijah talked with Jesus “about Jesus’ departure, which he would achieve in Jerusalem.” God meant this dramatic meeting, not as a random light show, but to prepare Jesus and the disciples for the cross that lay just ahead.

• The transformation the disciples saw in Jesus’ physical appearance pointed strongly to him being more than just one more teacher. But, as though to leave no doubt, God’s voice said of Jesus, “This is my Son whom I dearly love. I am very pleased with him. Listen to him!” What does it mean for you to listen to Jesus today? How willing are you to actually do it?
• Peter expressed a desire to stay on the mountain by putting up three shrines. Mark 9:6 reported that Peter “said this because he didn’t know how to respond.” Jesus knew it wasn’t possible to make that high moment permanent. Are there times, in worship or perhaps on a visit to a beautiful site, when you wish you could just stay there? What are the forces that lead you back into the “real world”? How can you be grateful for that, rather than resenting it?