VERSE FOR TODAY: Then a cloud formed, overshadowing them, and a voice came out of the cloud, "This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!" (Mark 9:7, New American Standard Bible).
HYMN FOR TODAY: "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus"
The events recorded in today's Scripture occurred about a week after Peter's confession near Caesarea Philippi. Peter James, and John, stilled shattered by Jesus' prophecy of His suffering and death, now saw His glory.
The transfiguration confirmed Jesus" decision to face the cross. Being both human and divine, Jesus struggled with the decision He had made. The meeting with Moses, the great law-giver of Israel, and Elijah, the great prophet, said to Jesus, "You are the fulfillment of the law and the prophets," Here was His assurance. Then came the voice of God giving the final, climactic confirmation.
From the apostless' perspective, this event gave them the fortitude to face the future. During Old Testament times, the presence of God was sometimes accompanied by a cloud. To the Jewish minds of the apostles, the descent of the cloud confirmed that Jesus was the Messiah, the Anointed One.
The transfiguration is shrouded in mystery, but it message is clear. Perhaps we, like the apostles, should bow in reverence and hold it precious in our hearts to strenghten us when our faith falters.
PRAYER THOUGHTS: Father, we are astonished by the many ways You have presented Christ to us. When our faith falters, we have only to look to Your Word for Strength and reassurance. Help us in those times to turn our eyes upon Jesus and see Him in all His glory. In His name we pray, Amen.
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