After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light.
Matthew 17:1,2
Our Extraordinary Savior
Devotion based on Matthew 17:1,2
See series: Devotions
Can you remember a special event from your life that stands out from the ordinary daily routine? You might have bright and vivid memories of a wedding day, the birth of a child or a move to a new home.
One day, Jesus invited three of his disciples to experience an extraordinary event they would not forget. The disciples witnessed the Savior, whose body beamed with blinding brilliance as he was illumined in heavenly glory. So glorious was this event that Peter wanted the moment to continue.
Jesus graciously shares this special moment with us too. By faith in the Word, we are transported to the mountaintop to stand alongside Peter, James, and John to behold Jesus in all his brilliance. Our eyes witness his majesty. Our ears are captivated by the cloud-enveloped voice of the heavenly Father, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”
On that day with his disciples, the light that emanated from Jesus did not linger long. Soon Jesus descended the mountain, destined to die in the darkness of the cross. Our glorious God bore our shame and guilt to win the pure light of life and forgiveness for us.
Jesus has not promised that every moment of our earthly lives will be free from sorrow and trouble. Jesus has told us that there will be days of suffering and tears. Yet each day–even those that are clouded by darkness and difficulty–Jesus extends to us the extraordinary light of his love. He cheers us with the unchanging message of his gospel and points us to the promised light of eternal day in heaven.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for setting aside your glory to suffer and die for my sins. Fill my life with your love and forgiveness through the light of your powerful Word. Amen.