A Life-Changing Encounter

There are a few experiences in life that are unforgettable and life transforming. As we journey through life and reflect back on our own story, we can all remember moments that marked our life.

Interestingly, the text we are reading today is that one experience that Peter marks out in his own experience and wrote about it in 2 Peter 1:16-18.

In Luke’s recounting of the story, he places this event at a very critical moment. Peter’s confession (9:20) gave way to Jesus’ announcement of the events to come. This necessitated a transforming experience. Jesus is not just divinely inspired; he is God. The event takes place eight days after the previous encounter. Memories are still fresh.

Jesus, together with Peter, John and James, is on a mountain. The location brings back memories of critical events in Jewish history. It was on a mountain that Moses received the Torah (Exodus 24) and Elijah went straight into God’s presence (2 Kings 2). The canon of Jewish scriptures concludes by talking about these two men (Malachi 4:4-6).

The voice from heaven declares, “This is my Son, whom I love; whom I have chosen.” But then there is a small addition, “Listen to him.” The disciples kept this event to themselves, according to Luke. When Peter writes about it 30 years later, he really had listened.

Respond in Prayer

LORD Jesus, I desire to listen to you afresh. Change my life as I follow you.

Carla Anne Coroy

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).