The temptation in reading this story is to stand and marvel at the image of Jesus, shining and glorious, revealed as the beloved Son of God. If you’ve ever had an experience – whether it was in an especially powerful worship service or beautiful music performance or a breathtaking view of nature – in which you were overcome by a sense of awe at the wonder of God, you know what these disciples must have felt like. Jesus allowed them their moment, but then he quietly touched them on the shoulder and told them it was time to head back down the mountain.
Fortified and strengthened by their time on the mountain, it was time to be about the business of building God’s kingdom, where healing and insight and welcome could be found in Jesus’ presence. I can imagine they would have drawn on the power of this experience when they faced the horror of Jesus’ arrest and death, and the uncertainty of the days that followed.
What have been some of the most powerful experiences that have filled you with an overwhelming sense of praise and worship? As you left that experience, what did you carry with you? Has it had any lasting impact on your ability to live a life of faith and discipleship? When might it be helpful to revisit that experience in your memory?
Today, spend some time with your eyes closed, remembering a powerful experience of worship and praise. Think about what your senses took in – what you saw, heard, smelled, tasted, touched. Imagine Jesus there with you. Take in a deep breath and tell him thanks.