Help us to listen to Jesus and to see him in a perfect light.
You probably remember the story how Jesus went up a mountain with three of his disciples and how he was changed so that his skin and clothes shone brilliantly while he talked with Moses and Elijah, so I want to look at what lessons we can learn from this.
Firstly, to set the scene, Jesus knew he was going to be crucified shortly after this event. He knew that his life was in God's hands. He probably didn't want to do as it was going to be painful and even lead to his death.
It shows us that Jesus needed help and support. While he was perfect, this doesn't mean he didn't feel frightened. We may also feel frightened. Some things we can't do, sometimes we are weak and fail. Jesus put his trust in God totally and God answered him.
This event would have been to strengthen him and encourage him. If nothing else, it would have shown that those who had died could be brought back to life. He believed, but this was concrete proof.
We don't know what they talked about exactly, but we are told it was to strengthen and help him with his coming death.
The other angle to look at was that of the disciples; Peter, James and John. Both John's and Mark's gospels precede the transfiguration with Jesus saying “But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.” I think this 'some' refers to these three disciples and that here they saw just what the kingdom would be like, or at least what Moses and Elijah would be like in the kingdom – so full of glory that they shone. To them this was another proof that Jesus was the Son of God.
The effect of seeing this sight woke them up from their slumber, and to add to their wonder they heard the voice coming out of the cloud saying, “This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!”
That is what we need to do; to listen to Jesus.
Why did Moses and Elijah appear to Jesus, and not others such as Abraham or David?
How was their appearance altered?
Why was their appearance altered?
Why did Peter say that they would make tents for Jesus, Moses and Elijah?
Can you think of any other lessons we can learn from this event? (As you may have guessed, I'm running out of ideas on this topic!!)