| Series | The Gospel of Luke |
|---|---|
| Theme | 3. Resurrection - Toetu |
| Colour | Lanu Pa’epa’e |
Scripture Focus: Luka 9:28-36
About eight days after these sayings, he took with him Peter, John, and James, and went up onto the mountain to pray. As he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became white and dazzling. Behold, two men were talking with him, who were Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory, and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, but when they were fully awake, they saw his glory, and the two men who stood with him. As they were parting from him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good for us to be here. Let’s make three tents: one for you, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah,” not knowing what he said. While he said these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered into the cloud. A voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him!” When the voice came, Jesus was found alone. They were silent, and told no one in those days any of the things which they had seen.
- Luke 9:28-36 (WEB)
Study:
This passage recounts the Transfiguration of Jesus, a pivotal moment in Luke’s Gospel. Jesus intentionally withdraws to a mountain to pray, and in the midst of prayer, His appearance is transformed. This isn't merely a physical change; it’s an unveiling of His divine glory. The appearance of Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets, signifies Jesus as the fulfillment of both. Their conversation focuses on Jesus’ “departure” – His death and resurrection in Jerusalem. The disciples, initially drowsy, are awakened to witness this extraordinary event. Peter, in his characteristic impulsiveness, suggests building shelters, attempting to contain and prolong this holy moment. However, a cloud overshadows them, and God’s voice declares Jesus as His beloved Son, commanding them to *listen* to Him. The passage concludes with the disciples' vow of silence, a profound indication of the weight and mystery of what they’d experienced.
Application:
The Transfiguration isn't about a fleeting visual spectacle; it’s about revealing Jesus’ true identity and preparing the disciples for His suffering and ultimate triumph. We too, struggle with fully grasping Jesus’ glory, sometimes caught up in the mundane or desiring to cling to comfortable understandings of faith. Like the disciples, we are called to awaken to His glory, not by seeking to capture it in structures (like Peter’s tents) but by *listening* to Him – through Scripture, prayer, and fellowship. The divine voice compels us to prioritize Jesus’ teachings and follow His path, even when it leads through hardship and sacrifice. His glory isn't a distant event; it's present whenever we truly encounter Him.
Reflection Questions:
- How do I typically respond when I encounter God in unexpected ways?
- In what ways do I attempt to “contain” God or limit His work in my life?
- What does it mean to truly “listen” to Jesus in my daily life?
- How does understanding the Transfiguration impact my view of Jesus’ suffering and resurrection?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for revealing Your Son, Jesus, in all His glory. Forgive us for the times we fail to recognize Your presence and for trying to define You within our own limits. Help us to awaken to Your glory, to listen to Your voice, and to follow Jesus faithfully, even in the midst of difficulty. Amen.
Tags: Luke, Transfiguration, Jesus, Glory, Moses, Elijah, Resurrection, Disciples, Prayer, Gospel, Faith, Listening, Divine Revelation