Father, as I contemplate the Transfiguration, a lot of questions come to mind. How did the other disciples react to Jesus pulling aside these three? Protect me from any jealousy when you use some of your servants in unique ways or reveal yourself in settings to which I am not a party. And, when I do catch glimpses of the divine that others do not, protect me from arrogance, as if that privilege was somehow earned by me rather than being a gift from you.
Lord Jesus, my mind can comprehend so little of your glory! You came as a humble infant and yet possess dazzling purity and power! Open my faculties to grasp both your nearness and your transcendence! And let me never take what you accomplished in Jerusalem for granted. Your “exodus” was foretold through Moses’ generation, and the sufficiency of your sacrifice was foretold through the destruction of your enemies by Elijah on Mount Carmel. Never let me lose sight of the perfections of your finished work!
Holy Spirit, when I am confronted by God’s glory, I sometimes – like Peter – say stupid stuff. Teach me to keep my mouth shut when I don’t know what I’m talking about! Open my ears to hear the testimony of the Father and the clear words of Jesus from Scripture. Just as Peter, James, and John were rightly afraid on that mountain, may the good fear of you mark my life. And when the time comes, enable me to speak of your glory in ways that reveal the true identity of Jesus to others.
Lord, I so often have a low estimation of your purposes and your power at work in the world around me. Bless me with a glimpse of reality – that the Lamb is also the Lion, that the Servant is also the Master, that the homeless peasant is now and forever our King. I worship you, Jesus, Son of the Most High God!