1 And after six days Jesus took with Him Peter and James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 2 And He was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became white as light. 3 And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him.
(Matthew 17:1-3, ESV)
It’s just so casual. Out for a walk, hiking up a mountain with some friends. No heads up or prep for anyone – just whammo! He’s suddenly shining like the sun, talking to the greatest minds of bible history like they’re just catching up. Just like that. One second you’re walking briskly, your breath picking up pace as you climb, wondering what Jesus is up to on this little expedition and then – wow – He takes your breath away. He isn’t just a man you’re hiking with anymore. You kind of already knew that – you’ve been around Him for years and He does these amazing things – but this?! Hands up to shield your eyes. You’re confused, bewildered, and begin to blabber out loud. Can you imagine what it was like to be there?! Suddenly in this little bible text we’re in a world we don’t recognize, a universe where people can shine, where long-dead men talk, and where transcendent glory is a hangout. Not a CGI special either – it’s as real as computer chips and soda pop. That means Christ’s glory and transcendence are still that tangible, that glorious, and revealed in space and time. Near to you. Now. Prayer is simply you gabbing with this reality. Near to you. Now. Worship is you kneeling because His throne is in front of you. Near to you. Now. This was the promise in the cradle in Bethlehem. Near to you. Now. There at your elbow, just within your reach, just within hearing, is the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the eternal I AM in the center of unending and undying praise. Your friend. Praise Him!!